The best things to do in Iceland

Eygló Svala Arnarsdóttir

Jul 5, 2023 • 12 min read

Man soaking in natural hot spring surrounded by nature in Iceland

Here are the top experiences in Iceland © Sam Spicer / Getty Images

Few destinations capture the imagination like Iceland . This volcanic land of ice and fire, of glacier-carved fjords, of freely-roaming horses, feels like nowhere else on earth. 

From taking a soak in its geothermal baths and spas to delving into the history and legends of the Icelandic sagas, Iceland keeps visitors entranced for entire trips – and for years after. These are the 14 best things to do in Iceland.

1. See history brought back to life at Iceland's living museums

Iceland revels in bringing history back to life with numerous living museums that invite visitors to step back in time. You might bake bread over an open fire, listen to a story of ancient heroes and heroines, or swing a sword in an epic fight. You can step inside a replica longhouse at Eiríksstaðir  in West Iceland or don VR goggles at 1238 – The Battle of Iceland to get an immersive experience of one of Iceland's most fearsome battles.

Each summer, a historic marketplace near Akureyri is brought back to life for the Gásir Medieval Days . Watch a blacksmith hammer a blade or smell scorched birch as it's transformed into charcoal. See women dye wool by boiling herbs or have a witch tell your fortune with ancient runes. You can even test your skills with a bow and arrow, or help to egg a thief. The country has plenty of other historic sites and intriguing exhibitions.

Planning tip: For more historic and mythic inspiration from the Icelandic Saga and Heritage Association .

2. Soak in geothermal baths and spas

For years the high-end bathing market in Iceland was dominated by  the Blue Lagoon . The milky blue geothermal seawater in the middle of a lava field is still perfect for jetlag recovery – it helps that it's 20 minutes from the airport – but more geothermal baths and spas have popped up in recent years, attracting visitors for their elegant architecture, stunning settings, and unique bathing experiences. The Mývatn Nature Baths in northern Iceland overlook Lake Mývatn and the surrounding bird-filled wetlands and volcanic landscapes. Situated on the banks of Lake Laugarvatn, Laugarvatn Fontana pipes in natural steam for its steam bath. 

If you're looking for solitude, the Canyon Baths by Húsafell include a guided hike through stunning Icelandic wilderness followed by a dip in the secluded geothermal pools. For Insta-worthy views, Geosea in Húsavík overlooks Skjálfandi Bay and its snow-tipped mountains. Vök Baths near Egilsstaðir features geothermal pools floating in Urriðavatn Lake. Right on the capital's doorstep,  Sky Lagoon in Kópavogur brings a fully Icelandic spa experience within reach for visitors to Reykjavík. Relax in the infinity pools of the brand-new  Forest Lagoon  which opened in 2022 just outside Akureyri.

Local tip: Iceland has some serious etiquette rules , especially when it comes to hot springs. You should always shower with soap before taking a dip.

A person in safety gear squats down low inside a huge pale blue ice cave

3. Explore Iceland's caves

From ancient lava tubes to ever-changing ice caves and mysterious artificial caves, Iceland has a range of underground adventures for everyone. Some 200 artificial caves have been carved into sandstone rock between Selfoss and Vík in South Iceland. Irish monks (called Papar in Icelandic) were thought to have created them before or around the time the first settlers arrived in the country, though the theory lacks sufficient archaeological evidence. Guided tours of 12 of these caves are available at the farm, Ægissíða by Hella.

Natural ice caves form in Vatnajökull , Europe's largest glacier, due to geothermal heat or spring thaw. This fleeting, crystalized world of wonder can only be explored with experienced guides. Alternatively, you can visit the artificial ice tunnel in Langjökull  or the ice cave at Perlan in Reykjavík. There are myriad large and small lava caves, tubes and tunnels around Iceland, too, all of which reveal surprising colors and formations like stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over hundreds of years. Guided tours are offered in Víðgelmir near Húsafell, Iceland's largest lava cave, Vatnshellir on Snæfellsnes and Lofthellir near Lake Mývatn.

Friends drinking beer at hipster bar in Reykjavík in a cool afternoon with the sunshine beaming in

4. Check out the nightlife in Reykjavík

In a country with comparatively high booze prices, Reykjavík's nightlife is unmatched. Happy hours in Reykjavík usually begin at 4pm – cozy Port 9 and Veður are good places to start. For creative cocktails, head for  Apótek and Slippbarinn  and find a spot on  Petersen svítan 's rooftop bar, which is wonderful on sunny days. If pubs are more your thing, check out KEX Hostel and Röntgen , where there's often live music to boot. Skuggabaldur caters specifically to jazz fans. 

Kaffibarinn and Prikið are good choices if you want to dance the night away. The crowd at Dillon always goes crazy when "rock'n'roll grandma" Andrea Jónsdóttir starts DJ-ing, and you'll find a similarly joyful atmosphere at  Kiki Queer Bar .

5. Hike up active volcanoes

In Iceland, there are approximately 130 volcanoes, and eruptions occur every three years on average. In Geldingadalir, on the doorstep of Keflavík International Airport, a small-scale eruption has attracted onlookers with its magnificent (yet intermittent) lava flow since March 19, 2021. In 1973, the inhabitants of Vestmannaeyjar, an archipelago off the southwest coast, escaped an eruption that started unexpectedly in their town, burying houses in lava and ash. One of these houses is the centerpiece of the museum Eldheimar . 

Hekla , Iceland's most active volcano, was believed to be the entrance to hell, but it has been quiet since 2000. At 1500m (4920ft), Hekla provides an interesting and challenging hike with a panoramic view from the top. At dormant Þríhnúkagígur, you can explore a volcano from the inside. From the top, you're lowered down 213m (699ft) into an enormous and unbelievably colorful magma chamber.

A streak of green and yellow lights sweeps in an arc across the night sky, with millions of twinkling stars shining through.

6. See the northern lights and other celestial phenomena

If luck is on your side, green, purple and red ribbons flow across the dark sky on a clear winter night. The northern lights are beautiful, powerful, hypnotizing; you can sense how small you are under the hue of a celestial phenomenon that dominates the heavens above. It's best to follow forecasts, base yourself far from light pollution and be patient – or book a tour to up the odds. Learn more about the elusive aurora borealis at Perlan or the Northern Lights Center in Reykjavík. 

There are other things to observe in the winter sky above Iceland, too. The Hotel Rangá observatory in South Iceland has a roll-off roof and two high-quality telescopes, bringing you closer to the stars in the sky. 

Planning tip:  If you'd prefer to visit Iceland in the summer , the midnight sun provides for spectacular views, especially in north Iceland. For the summer solstice (June 21) find a good location for observing the sun bouncing off the ocean surface. One idea is the Arctic Henge in Raufarhöfn, which was designed as a giant sundial to capture the midnight sun in perfectly aligned gateways. 

Gamla Laugin, the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir, South Iceland. Guests can walk around the area to view the hot springs

7. Take a budget-friendly swim with the locals

The most authentic and budget-friendly way to enjoy Iceland' s geothermal energy is the public swimming pools. Practically every town and village has at least one. The water is warm and welcoming, lounging in the hot tubs is bliss, and some of the views are worth the trip alone. 

This is where the locals go to exercise, socialize and play with their kids. Find your favorites, but among pools worth visiting are Álftaneslaug for its wave pool, Sundlaug Akureyrar for its thrilling waterslides, Selárlaug for being next to a salmon river, and Hofsóslaug for the amazing view of Drangey Island .

8. Make the most of the snow 

There are so many ways to enjoy the snowy season in Iceland. Find ski resorts near Reykjavík , Ísafjörður , Neskaupstaður , Akureyri and elsewhere in the north , with ski lifts and slopes of varying levels, as well as tracks for cross-country skiing.

The backcountry skiing season lasts through May, with a range of tours on offer, including skiing from the mountaintop to the shore. Kaldbakur mountain by Grenivík is popular among backcountry skiers. It's possible to hitch a ride with a snowmobile up the mountain. The view from the top of Eyjafjörður fjord and Hrísey island is breathtaking. If you're not keen on skiing, you can take a thrilling sleigh ride down the mountain in a custom-made toboggan. 

At Lake Mývatn, you can book a ride with sleigh dogs. For a motorized, action-packed adventure, Skidoo tours are particularly popular on the glaciers in the west and south.

Local tip: If you're looking for a slower-paced type of winter activity, snowshoeing might be your thing, walking up mountains in the north or exploring the black-and-white wonderworld of Dimmuborgir lava field.

Whale breaching in the ocean as the sun rises casting orange streaks across the sky

9. Get out on the water and go whale watching

When you're out on the open ocean and feel the salty air and wind in your hair, you sense a special kind of freedom, and if you're paying attention, you might see seabirds catch fish or even a blowing whale. Húsavík is the best place to go whale watching in Iceland, with many tours on offer and a high sighting ratio – even blue whales are occasionally seen here. Tours also go from Hauganes and Reykjavík. Seal-watching tours depart from Hvammstangi. Watching these curious creatures sunbathe in their natural habitat is delightful. Operators in Dalvík and Akureyri also take hopeful whale spotters out on daily excursions.

Alternatively you can sign up for a sea kayaking tour for a slower and more intimate exploration of coastal regions. Find operators in Stykkishólmur and Ögur in Ísafjarðardjúp, among other places. Paddleboarding is also becoming a popular activity in Akureyri. From Ólafsfjörður jetski tours allow people to experience the vertical cliffs of Ólafsfjarðarmúli from below.

Detour : For experiences below the surface, Strýtan DiveCenter takes experienced divers on tours to a unique geothermal chimney on the ocean floor of Eyjafjörður. At Grímsey island, people can dive and snorkel with puffins right on the Arctic Circle.

10. Sample some Icelandic craft beers

The local beer always says something special about the place you're visiting, and you can add a new frothy dimension to your Iceland trip by touring the country's surprisingly many microbreweries. The craft beer scene is fairly new in Iceland; the first microbrewery, Bruggsmiðjan , was founded in the tiny village of Árskógssandur in North Iceland in 2006. Its product, Kaldi, proved a hit, and in the years that followed, a growing variety of craft beers appeared on the local market. 

Among the most noteworthy breweries in the greater Reykjavík area are Malbygg , RVK Brewing and Lady Brewery . There are also breweries in the rural south, in Vestmannaeyjar off the South Coast, in Siglufjörður in the far north and  Ísafjörður in the West Fjords .

11. Try Iceland's fine dining

The Icelandic restaurant scene has come a long way in the past decades. Dill Restaurant earned the country's first Michelin star in 2017 and has since been joined by Óx and Sumac in Reykjavík. The latter draws inspiration from Middle Eastern cuisine. Other top recommendations include  Matur og drykkur  and Moss at the Blue Lagoon , which both emphasize New Nordic dishes with fresh, local and seasonal ingredients.Outside of Reykjavík, Nielsen Restaurant in Egilsstaðir deserves a special mention for its loyalty to East Icelandic food producers – highlighting local fish, meat, vegetables, grain and dairy – and game, including reindeer. Meanwhile, Norð Austur Sushi & Bar in Seyðisfjörður (open in summer only) combines the best of Japanese cuisine with the freshest Icelandic seafood.

12. Hike or bike through stunning natural wonders

After the snow melts and the mud dries in summer, Iceland reveals its incredible hiking routes past stunning natural sites . Two of the most famous trails are Laugavegur from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk, past multicolored mountains (2–4 days), and across Fimmvörðuháls from Skógafoss to Þórsmörk, along a series of waterfalls (1–2 days).

In the East, the Stórurð trail – which takes about 5 hours – attracts hikers in growing numbers for its turquoise ponds trapped by huge boulders. In the West Fjords, hiking in the uninhabited Hornstrandir Nature Reserve (one to multiple days) provides a closer encounter with nature than most other places. If you'd rather explore Iceland on a bike, popular trails include the geothermal valley Reykjadalur by Hveragerði and the emerald green landscape around Kirkjubæjaklaustur, where Iceland Bike Farm is based.

13. Explore Reykjavík on an outdoor art trail

Combine a walking tour of Reykjavík with a "treasure hunt" where you find as many outdoor artworks as possible. The "Viking ship" sculpture Sólfar by Jón Gunnar Árnason is a given. Fewer tourists pay attention to Vatnsberinn (The Water Carrier) by Ásmundur Sveinsson in the heart of downtown or Útlaginn (The Outlaw) by Einar Jónsson on the corner of Suðurgata and Hringbraut – works by two of Iceland's most famous sculptors. 

Þúfa (The Tussock) is a more recent addition to the capital's outdoor art scene but quickly became a landmark. The 8m-high grassy mound in the Grandi harbor area was created by Ólöf Nordal in 2013, inviting visitors to walk to the top for a view of the city. Outside Reykjavík, Eggin í Gleðivík by Sigurður Guðmundsson represents the eggs of 34 species of birds that nest around Djúpivogur. In Seyðisfjörður , Tvísöngur is a fascinating musical sculpture by German artist Lukas Kühne.

Local tip: Download the multi-language Reykjavík Art Walk app to learn more about the arty side of Iceland's capital. 

Young woman petting Icelandic horse in vast filed along fjord coastline with snow covered mountains and dramatic sky.

14. Feel freedom by horse-riding in Iceland

The Icelandic horse is one of a kind. The breed possesses two rare gaits in addition to the "regular" ones, the smooth tölt and fast-flying pace. For centuries Icelanders have relied on the small, sturdy and colorful breed for farm work and carrying them between places in a roadless country.Today, the horses remain Icelanders' most loyal companions as more people practice horsemanship in Iceland than in other European countries. Riding on a good tölting horse in the wild Icelandic nature is an experience like no other. Through the horse's movements, you connect with nature in a new way, and you feel incredibly free as you gallop along narrow dirt paths or across shallow lakes. Tour operators offer anything from one-hour tours for beginners to multi-day tours for experienced riders in different regions of the country in varied landscapes.

Detour:  One of the most popular horse-riding treks is across the highland on the ancient route, Kjölur.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated July 2023

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10 Iceland Hidden Gems: A local’s guide to off-the-beaten-path in Iceland

January 11, 2024

Paula Martinelli

Iceland’s hidden gems are most of the time overlooked by visitors, and they can easily be found close to Iceland’s biggest attractions , there are also some places that are off the beaten path in Iceland.

But if you are planning a trip to Iceland and looking for a more authentic adventure, and go off the beaten path in Iceland you still can find some incredible Iceland hidden gems that most visitors don’t usually know about.

This guide has the best Iceland hidden gems and the most authentic way to explore amazing Iceland off the beaten path, all revealed by an expert local guide, Henrick. 

I met Henrik during my Ring Road trip to Iceland . He was my glacier climbing guide. Besides being a certified guide, I was amazed to find out that Henrik’s family has been in Iceland since the year 925, and he has so much knowledge of the history of the land of fire and ice.

As a person who loves to partner with local guides to support the local economy, and share the most authentic local experience with you, I invited Henrik to write this guide. You won’t find anything else like this, it’s a true insider’s guide to Iceland. 

You will also love this:

  • How to Travel to Iceland on Budget + FREE activities and Tips to save money
  • 12 Best Glacier Tours in Iceland (Expert Review)

10) GALDRASAFNID: The Museum of Icelandic Witchcraft

Other tips to plan your trip to iceland.

Iceland hidden gems

Iceland Hidden Gems Overview

These top 10 hidden gems in Iceland were picked as my personal favorites and they are easy to get to by car. There are so many beautiful places around Iceland and picking the top 10 favorites is just scratching the tip of the iceberg (or glacier).

Get off the beaten path in Iceland and take your adventure to another level, such as go Explore the Highlands in Iceland, an area that visitors rarely see and explore. Or choose one of the amazing glacier tours.

However, I made sure that this list can be inspiring for your planned visits around Iceland. There is something for everyone.

If you’ve visited Iceland before then I made sure to mention a few places that you might have missed out on. If this is your first time reading or planning to come to Iceland then make sure to check out more articles about Iceland here .

Iceland Hidden Gems

Top 10 Iceland Hidden Gems

1) reykjanes peningusla / grindavík: feel the earthquakes in iceland.

Iceland hidden gem

This is the top one on this list of the Iceland Hidden Gems and a must-see place. 

The land of ice and fire is at it again. As a result, with around 10 earthquakes happening on average every day, the small fishing town of Grindavík has been experiencing 20+ every day since the beginning of 2020.

This makes Grindavík the number one best-hidden gem of our unique places in Iceland since it is close to the airport. The town is just south of the famous Blue Lagoon, so it is just about an hour’s drive from Keflavík.

With small restaurants and cafe shops around the town and by the harbor, it can be quite something to sit down at one of the places during the tremors and feel the power of nature.

The quakes are small, reaching around 3 on the Richter scale. Houses in Iceland are built to withstand much larger ones, so you are safe in the town. This excitement is happening because magma is moving several kilometers underground and pushing the surrounding landscape up.

There are chances that a fissure eruption might start, similar to the ones in Hawaii. The townspeople are well aware of the possibility and are well prepared for it while volcanologists think it is not likely that the magma will reach the surface and who knows how long the earthquakes will be trending like they are.

It’s worth checking out since a visit to the town and a drive on the south part of the Reykjanes peninsula is one of the easiest ways to explore nature just outside of Reykjavík.

BEST ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN GRINDAVÍK

Great Value | Sunu Private room near Blue Lagoon

My recommendation | Nupan Deluxe

Best rated on Booking.com | The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland

2) ÁSBYRGI: Go hiking at an Iceland hidden gem

hidden gem in Iceland in the fall

There are plenty of scenic hiking routes around Ásbyrgi making it one of the best Iceland sightseeing sites, and one of the most unique places you will find in northeast Iceland.

But if you want to get out of the beaten path and find some real gems in Iceland, this is the place for you.

It has everything that a traveler is looking for and personally I think it has the best campsites in the area, It offers stunning nature, myths, old sagas and culture, hiking paths, information signs, and campsites.

This hidden gem in Iceland is part of Vatnajökull National Park. The incredible views and nature in Ásbyrgi are out of this world any time of the year, but especially around fall when the leaves change colors and make it so colorful.

There are plenty of paths through the forest inside Ásbyrgi. 

It is believed to be the place where Óðin’s horse Sleipnir first came into existence and as he landed the horseshoe shape land was created.

We know however that it was shaped because of a flood called Hlaup (meaning Run!). A sup glacier eruption melted the water that created the shape of the land. The cliffs are perfect if you are looking for elves, locals say that they are everywhere.

But whether you believe in elves or not, Ásbyrgi is a place for adventures. It is most popular in the summer but if you are looking for less traffic just remember, Iceland is the land of the midnight sun, so adjust that to your own time and explore when others elsewhere.

BEST ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN ÁSBYRGI AREA

Great Value | Skógar Sunset Guesthouse

My recommendation | Bjarnabúð Apartments

Best rated on Booking.com | Svartaborg

3) HROSSABORG: The best place to see Iceland’s Northern light

secret scapes is a Hidden Gem in Iceland

Talking about a hidden gem in Iceland, Hrossaborg is a must-place to add to your list.

Hrossaborg is a crater in a stark lunar landscape that was perfect for the movie Oblivion where it was made to look like a ruined stadium.

It is part of the highlands and can be found close to the Ring Road in the northeast. Hrossaborg was named by farmers from the north of the country who used the site as a base for their end-of-summer sheep gathering.

The site was perfect for keeping horses inside the crater since there is hardly anything else to tie the horses to while people slept.

Funny enough I have seen some amazing photos from this site, especially in twilight playing with the otherworldly feel to it. Use your imagination when you are there and see what fun photographs you come up with. This place is also a very nice stop to spot northern lights in winter since the area around is flat and you can be sheltered .

Hrossaborg has a good shelter to take cover or have a picnic during any time of year but a fantastic site during twilight hours in the darker months in Iceland.

BEST ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN HROSSABORG AREA

Great Value | Grímstunga Guesthouse

My recommendation | Grímsstaðir Guesthouse 

Best rated on Booking.com | Íslandsbærinn /Old Farm

4) BORGARFJORKUR EYSTRI: Iceland’s hidden gem town & Hiking paradise

Iceland Hidden gem

Borgarfjörður Eystri is one of the most unique towns on the island and is truly off the beaten path in Iceland. This very remote town has around 100 people and it is a paradise for hiking and beautiful nature. 

Far from the Ring Road, this town is surrounded by beautiful mountains often said to be the birthplace of the trolls of old. The road to get there is a dramatic and precipitous drive over an unpaved mountain pass that loops around some sheer cliffs by the fjord. This is a small fishing town and services hikers.

If you love hiking off-the-beaten-path, you will find marked trails that range from 1 hour to a full day.

Another curiosity is that Borgarfjörður is the home of the Queen of Elves. It is possible to walk to the hill “Álfaborg” – “The Elves´Castle” where the queen of the Icelandic elves allegedly resides with her court

When you get there, you will be blown away as a result of the incredible landscape and mysterious fog. The fog comes and goes at a very fast rate and emanates such a surreal feeling.

Like something out of a fairy tale, the colorful mountains, valleys, waterfalls, ponds, and raindeers create such a calm as you hike around, and it is well worth spending a few days hiking from the town or between huts.

One of my all-time favorite hikes is in this area, nature and views are enough to put it in the top 4. I love guiding the trails there telling stories, sharing knowledge, and secret places all around the fjords. A must-visit and unique experience .

BEST ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN BORGARFJODUR EYSTRI

The only and best option in town | Blabjorg Guesthouse

5) MT. HERKUBREID: The queen of the Icelandic mountains

hidden places Iceland

Herðubreið is a favorite in my list of hidden gems in Iceland, often called the “Queen of Icelandic Mountains”. It is a cupcake-shaped mountain on the Oskjuleið Route, with a 1682m high table mountain.

There is a hiking trail to the top of the mountain, but due to loose rock, it is difficult and steep, due to the multiple volcanic layers that formed the mountain during the ice age.

The surrounding area is beautiful as well. Mt. Herðubreið is in the highlands situated between the town of Egilsstaðir in the east and Mývatn to the west. The closest town is Reykjahlíð at Mývatn and around lake Mývatn, there are plenty of places to spend the night along visiting the lake itself and some beautiful spots around it but the closest place to spend the night would be Möðrudalur/Fjalladyrd only a 2-hour drive from the mountain

There are huts at Herðubreiðalindir where rangers can recommend adventures fitting for the time of year. The drive there is stunning, and the hiking options are perfect for any nature lover.

By the huts are a ranger station and a campsite. It is such a stunning place and you will love spending time there when you have the chance.

To get there you have to drive on a rough gravel road in the highlands so always have the appropriate vehicle and stay on the roads.

The Icelandic landscape is unique in every way and any damages done by off-road driving are taken very seriously by the locals and authorities.

BEST ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN MT. HEROUBREID AREA

Great Value | Lyngás Guesthouse

My recommendation | Ormurinn Cottages

Best rated on Booking.com | Finnstaðir

Iceland off the beaten track

6) HENGIFOSS WATERALL: Also visit the visit center Snæfellsstofa

Iceland secret scapes

Another fascinating hidden gem in Iceland and also, my favorite waterfall on the island is the stunning Hengifoss Waterfall with 128.5 meters high, making it the 2nd highest waterfall in Iceland.

Well, the Hengifoss waterfall is technically the second highest measured waterfall in Iceland but there are others higher that fall from the edges of glaciers and disappear underneath the ice again. 

It drops into the Fljótsdalur   valley, and you can hike to the waterfall on a gradual climb uphill for about 1 hour. 

What makes the Hengifoss waterfall so intriguing are the rock layers of red clay with 5-6 million-year-old basalt layers from volcanic eruptions in the Tertiary Period. The multiple red stripes you can observe, are sediments and old soil from the oxidation of the iron in the clay. Just a fascinating hidden place in Iceland and a must-visit! 

Also, while you are in this area, I highly recommend visiting the Snæfellsstofa Visitor Center, a fantastic visitor center. It is a good place to stop during your trip to read up on Icelandic history and check out what local animals can be found in the area.

Another great place and just a short walk, visit the historical and cultural center called Skriðklaustur , which used to be the private home of the Nobel prize nominee Gunnar Gunnarsson. Skriðklaustur has a historical exhibition on the top floor and a cafe on the lower floor.

There are as well old medieval ruins just below the hill well worth exploring if you like history.

BEST ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN EGILSSTADIR

Great Value | Lagarfel Studios

My recommendation | Omurinn Guesthouse

Best rated on Booking.com | Finnstadir

Off the beaten path in iceland

7) TROLLASKAGI: The best-hidden gem in Iceland for skiing and snowmobile adventure

Hidden gems in Iceland

There are small towns all around the Tröllaskagi peninsula, and North is the fishing town of Siglufjörður, the most popular town for winter activities, and a real hidden gem in Iceland.

In the summertime, the mountains become a hiker’s paradise . However, the only way to get to the small glaciers scattered around the mountains would be on foot.

Here you can find by far one of the best skiing areas in Iceland , a peninsula with hundreds of stops to check out, and one of the best-hidden gems in Iceland.

Tröllaskagi is a huge mountainous region and therefore a paradise for skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling , depending on what time of the year you go of course. There are over 200 glaciers in the whole peninsula and the snow in the mountains can last through the month of May.

There are few places in the world where you can ski down a mountain and end on a black beach by the ocean but here you can experience it.

The area is experiencing some earthquake activity since June 2020 so make sure to get info from locals before hiking in the mountains. Driving around Tröllaskagi in the summer is stunning. The roads are winding, and it is quite exciting to drive on the edge of a cliff with the ocean below.

There are so many places to check out so when you get there I would love to hear from you about your favorite spots.

BEST ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN SIGLUFJORDUR

Great Value | Siglunes Guesthouse

My recommendation | Siglo Apartments

Best rated on Booking.com | Siglo Hotel

Iceland hidden gems

8) ÖRLYGSSTADABARDAGI: The place of the biggest Viking battle in Iceland

hidden places iceland

Örlygsstaðabardaginn is not the longest name in Icelandic but it is close to it.

This is the location of the biggest Viking battles in Iceland, which took place on August 21st, 1238. About 2,800 Vikings fought each other, making it one of the bloodiest battles in this young country’s history. If you love history, it is a must-try experience to uncover Iceland’s off-the-beaten-path.

Arriving at the car park, you can find an information sign with the above explanation of the Viking battle. You can also see a steel plaque that has been added with good information on the battle.

In Sauðarkrókur just west of the Tröllaskagi you can find 1238 The Battle for Iceland, a museum, where you can take part in virtual Viking battles. It is a VR and AR experience like no other giving you the chance to feel and fight on a Viking battlefield. 

BEST ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN SAUDARKROKUR

Great Value | Grand-Inn Bar and Bed 

My recommendation | Gamla Posthusid

Best rated on Booking.com | Steinn Farm private apartment

9) DYNJANDI: A Fantasy hidden-gem Waterfall in Iceland

Iceland hidden places

Dynjandi is a fantasy waterfall in the lower jaw of the West fjords.

Dynjandi waterfall is the biggest waterfall in the Westfjords, a hidden part of Iceland, and it truly deserves to be called the jewel of the Westfjords.  

You can see it from the parking lot but this waterfall is like a magnet. It pulls you towards it with every step you take, the more stunning it becomes with its dramatic beauty and geological details.

The waterfall looks like a stepped pyramid made of water and is best enjoyed when you are close up to it.

Dynjandi Waterfall has 30 meters wide, and it widens up to 60 meters at the bottom. To make this place even more incredible, you can find 6 other waterfalls below Dynjandi, which one passes on the way up to the biggest waterfall. 

The term dynjandi in the Icelandic language means thunderous and if you visit it, you will understand why. Also, note that Dynjandi, since 1981 is preserved as a natural protected monument and you need to stay on the paths to preserve nature and prevent this beautiful place from being damaged. 

BEST ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN HOFN

Great Value | Hofn Guesthouse

My recommendation | Milk Factory

Best rated on Booking.com | Miðsker

Off the beaten path Iceland

Number 10 on this incredible list of Iceland’s hidden gems is a little different from the stunning landscapes and fairy tail waterfalls in Iceland. But still well worth visiting, especially if you are someone who loves Folklore, Iceland is one of the best places to dive in. 

Galdrasafnið is without a doubt one of the most unique and cultural places you can find in Iceland. This is the museum of witchcraft in Hólmavík Village, on the east side of Westfjords.

The museum is so intriguing and it is not recommended for the faint-hearted. You will learn all about Icelandic witchcraft – from seeing the magical signs to making yourself invisible or even “seeing” an invisible boy. 

Other amazing things you can see and learn while visiting the museum are about zombies, milk-sucking demons, and magical staves. 

Magic, especially magic runes was all the rage in Iceland, especially in the west fjords where the secret of spells and runes lay hidden from the church.

The museum gives you a glimpse into some of the weirdest ceremonies you will ever hear of and the magical runes give great inspiration to many artists.

BEST ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN HÓLMAVIK

Great Value | Steinhúsið

My recommendation | Finna Hotel

Best rated on Booking.com | Kriokot

Iceland Hidden Gems in 3-Minutes

Plan your Iceland Hidden Gems Trip

When you are planning your trip to Iceland Hidden Gems, make sure to check all the resources that you need to plan, prepare, and book your trip:

Book your Flight to Iceland

If you live in the US, take advantage of the proximity and the prices for flights. I flew from Florida and took a direct flight of only 7 hours.

  • Choose to fly during the low season (Iceland wintertime)
  • Compare prices leaving from different airports, instead of only considering a direct flight from your town. Sometimes a domestic connection is a good option and will save you some money.

There are several airlines for you to choose from, depending on your departure location. Your destination in Iceland will be the Keflavik International Airport (KEF). 

Book your rental car in Iceland

YOU WILL NEED A RENTAL CAR IN ICELAND – First of all, if you are planning to visit some of these hidden gems in Iceland, you will need to rent a car. The tours in Iceland do not take you to these places, if they would, then it wouldn’t be a hidden place, right!? Also, if you decide to rent a car I recommend checking the road conditions before you start driving in Iceland.

If you decide to rent a car, y ou can save on your rental car when you book through this site .

⇒ ICELAND TRIP PLANNING: Please check this complete Iceland Travel Planning . You can find all the information you need to make your trip to Iceland the best experience.

⇒ VISA FOR ICELAND : Get your Iceland visa through iVisa if you don’t want to fill out the forms yourself.

⇒ ACCOMMODATIONS IN ICELAND: Great accommodation options and budget-friendly guest houses, and you can easily find and book them through Booking.com.  I also selected the best options to book accommodations close to the areas to visit.

⇒ BUDGET: It depends on your travel style, it can be very expensive or you can plan to travel to Iceland on a budget. Visit my Iceland Trip Cost guide with all the details you need to plan your budget accordingly. 

⇒ TRAVEL INSURANCE IN ICELAND  It doesn’t matter if you are traveling around Iceland on a private tour or driving in Iceland, what is important is to get travel insurance for any travel style. I recommend and also use reliable insurance through World Nomads before your trip to Iceland. You can just do a quick quote below, and you will be surprised to find out how little it can cost, for the benefit you will get.

⇒ GROUP & PRIVATE TOURS: Group or private tours are also great options, especially for some activities. A safe and great option I recommend is to book through Get Your Guide , as they have many options for tours, and you can plan and book ahead.  You can also check my review on the Best Glacier Hike in Iceland Tour s here.

⇒ BEST TIME TO VISIT ICELAND:   Check the weather in Iceland. The time of year can make a big difference. In the wintertime, Iceland has around 4 – 5 hours of sunlight in December – January but the midnight sun dances around through the summer keeping the sky bright!

Trip planning Iceland to visit the best Iceland Hidden Gems

Iceland Hidden Gems Conclusion

When you come to visit the hidden gems in Iceland, remember you are traveling in a country of ice and fire.

Hope this article helps you find your way to some of the most unique and beautiful off-the-beaten tracks in Iceland, and if you need any help with your adventure, I would love to be your guide, and help you to have the most authentic adventure in Iceland. Find my contact information below.

Here is some further information I think you might need to plan your  trip:

  • 10 Easy Steps to Plan your Trip
  • Iceland Travel Planning .
  • 10-Day Iceland Itinerary
  • Travel to Iceland on a Budget
  • Iceland Glacier Hiking & Ice Climbing.
  • Best Landmarks and Attractions in Iceland

Iceland Hidden Gems

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Henrik C. Hlynsson is a certified mountain guide and has a degree in Iceland History. In his free time, he travels around the island discovering the hidden gems in Iceland, and at home, he creates Icelandic landscape paintings. Henrik loves representing his people, the myths, nature, and Icelandic sagas. If you are interested in hiring Henrik as your guide, you can leave a message here or connect directly with his Instagram , and also don’t forget to check out his paintings .

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Plan your Trip

You can plan your trip with this easy guide and have access to the best services I recommend and you can get discounted prices.

Trip Planner Iceland

Tips For Travel To Iceland: How to Plan a Perfect Trip to Iceland

Iceland Itinerary 10 days

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Iceland trips costs

How Much is a Trip to Iceland + Tips to Create your Budget for Iceland!

45 thoughts on “10 iceland hidden gems: a local’s guide to off-the-beaten-path in iceland”.

Great guide to an incredible place. Hiring a guide seems really useful, good info!

Such a beautiful post. Stunning photos. Iceland has been in my bucket list for a while. Need to plan sometime soon I guess. This post will be helpful. Thanks for sharing.

You have definitely found some real gems in Iceland. The witchcraft museum would be a must for me. I like how you include the Icelandic words for things. Very authentic.

I would love to visit Iceland! Even better if I know all the off-the-beaten path spots! Thanks a lot!

Awesome post! I really want to get to Iceland, but haven’t managed it yet. Those waterfalls look incredible. I am especially wowed by Hengifoss Waterfall, those clay layers in the rock are so unique. It’s definitely going on the list!

Wow I missed all of these spots when I visited Iceland – guess I’ll have to go back!

What a wonderful post! I adore hidden gems and actually seek them out on my travels, so I will definitely be keeping this guide handy!

Obsessed with this list of hidden gems. I definitely missed a lot on my trip to Iceland! Pinning to refer to on my next Iceland trip!

Such a cool post! It was great to get an insight into what Iceland is like beyond the typical tourist destinations! Thanks so much for sharing 🙂

I so want to go back to Iceland now! I just love exploring off the beaten path and these places all look absolutely perfect. Thanks for sharing this awesome guide!

Thanks Linn and yes…I need to go back and explore each one of these places, what a bucket list!

I am so glad you enjoyed this post Lauren. There is no better experience than to travel anywhere in the world to the hidden places, right?

Me too Devin! I need to go back soon and explore each of these places, they are really hidden gems.

I am so glad you enjoyed this post Elena. I am with you, I just adore hidden gems too, and it makes any trip even better to uncover these places and not only go to the crowded areas.

Great excuse to go back Jessica, and you are welcome…haha. Thanks girl, glad you enjoyed it!

Hey Nat, I hope you get to visit Iceland soon, you will love it. I am with you, the Hengifoss Waterfall is so incredible and unique.

I hope you get to visit Iceland Ophelie, it is an incredible country and it was one of my top destinations in the Planet!

I am so glad to hear you got inspired to go to Iceland Rituparna, and yes, Iceland still offers many opportunities for real authentic places and hidden gems.

Heyyyy Katy – Yo are right, I love to travel by myself but sometimes having a guide is necessary and so worth it.

Iceland has been on my list for some time and posts like this bring it right to the top. The witchcraft museum sounds really interesting and of course all the waterfalls look fantastic. What a great post with some things I haven’t even heard of

I love that you partnered with Henrik, a local guide to really share the the off the beaten path places. I’ve been to Iceland once and did the most popular things, but your post inspires me to want to go back and see more. Dynjandi is gigantic and amazing! I bet it looks even better in person.

Iceland is such a magical place and I am glad it is re-opening for travelers. Your post is making me want to re-visit it. I’ll definitely keep these hidden gems in mind if I do!

Wow! Such an amazing guide! I’m planning a summer trip there and this is so helpful! I’ve never heard of Dynjandi, but I really want to go! This is truly a hidden gem list! Thank you!`

I guess since the earthquakes are small it would be cool to feel one 😉 Iceland looks like such a beautiful place and you’ve found so many awesome things to see. I can’t wait to visit one day!

I definitely wish I had known about these spots before our trip to Iceland a couple of years ago. I’ll add them to my list for our next trip for sure.

Always wanted to visit Iceland! So so excited to maybe go this year! Will save this for later!

Thank you for sharing so much detail, and so many great photos! I love Iceland and can’t wait to go back to visit some of these places.

Iceland is on my bucket-list! I hope to visit soon and I will save your tips for the day I can go there!

I adored reading about these wonderful hidden gems! Herðubreið in particular looks absolutely incredible! I’ve just pinned for future inspiration 🙂

Wow, I had no idea there are 10 earthquakes a day! I had the best time in Iceland but I didn’t get to see many of these places, so I need to go back! I’m so inspired by this post!

Great guide. I’ve been to 3 or so of these hidden gems and loved them. Now I have more to explore the next time I visit Iceland.

WOW! Great you have been to 3 of these amazing hidden gems. I think if I spend 1 year in Iceland, I will still not cover all I want to do.

Right!? 10 earthquakes a day, only in Iceland…haha. I am glad to hear you enjoyed this post.

Thank you so much for your kind words, Elena. I hope you get to visit Iceland soon, you will absolutely love it.

I hope you get to visit Iceland soon too Ophelie – You will fall in love!

Me too Rachel, I cannot wait to go back to Iceland and explore this incredible country.

I hope you get to visit Iceland this year Natalia – it is such a diverse and amazing place.

Me too, I didn’t visit all of them. But hey, now we have an excuse to go back to Iceland 😉

I know, right!? I think I would love to feel the small quakes too and just feel the power of nature.

I am very happy to hear you enjoyed this list Linnea, and I would love to hear from your summer trip to Iceland when you are back 😉

Me too Poonam, it makes me really happy they are re-opening Iceland safely. I hope you get to visit Iceland soon!

Awe, thanks. Henrik is an amazing person and a phenomenal guide. He helped me to fall in love with Iceland even more, by hearing his stories and all the knowledge he has on Icelandic history.

Thank you so much Emma. The waterfalls in Iceland are something else….each one of them is so different and unique. I am so glad to hear you enjoyed this post.

Hello! Many thanks for providing this article. Will be in Iceland for a week but can already see I’ll be needing a return visit there in the future! Can you provide any special eateries in Iceland that are surely not to be missed?

Hi Mary, I am glad you enjoyed this article – Iceland has great food, and I can recommend good places to eat if you let me know where you are planning to visit. On this very detailed itinerary, I have recommendations of best places to eat for each area of the Ring Road, and I hope this can help you – https://www.paulapinstheplanet.com/iceland-ring-road-10-day-itinerary/ – I had great meals at the Farm houses that I stayed, everything was very fresh, especially the fish.

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Top 12 Best Things To Do and See in Iceland

Top 12 Best Things To Do and See in Iceland

Nanna Gunnarsdóttir

12. Go On a Whale Watching Tour

  • 11. Go Horseback Riding

10. Have a Night Out in Reykjavik

9. visit lake myvatn in north iceland, 8. relax in the blue lagoon spa, 7. see dettifoss waterfall in north iceland, 6. places to see in iceland: the westfjords.

  • 5. The Gem of Iceland - Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
  • 4. Take a Dip in a Natural Hot Pool!

3. Tour the Golden Circle and Go Snowmobiling or Snorkeling

2. must see iceland: witness the northern lights.

  • 1. Go Glacier Hiking and Ice Caving

What are the Top 12 activities and experiences to partake in during your holiday in Iceland? What are the most popular tour choices and cultural excursions?

Find out the best things to do in Iceland. Explore all the fun activities, natural wonders, and best places to visit in this list of the 12 top things to see and do in Iceland.

For those wondering what to do in Iceland, the real question should be what isn’t there to do in Iceland! The sheer variety of experiences available gives you plenty of options for things to do during your trip. You’ll find that time and budget will be the biggest limitations when planning your trip rather than the things you want to do.

The most popular way to travel in Iceland is by renting a car or  booking a self-drive tour . This way you can drive to all the places you want to see and try the experiences you like the most. It's also easy to find a place to stay on the largest selection of accommodations in Iceland , with anything from remote cottages to luxury hotels. So if you're thinking of visiting the land of ice and fire, just fly to Iceland and make it happen!

  • Read also the Top 10 Things to Do in Reykjavik

But even if you give yourself plenty of time while visiting Iceland, there's always something that you'll have to leave undone, so it's all about picking and choosing. Because we cooperate with nearly all travel service providers in the country, Guide to Iceland is in a prime position to help you choose the best things to see and do in Iceland. Forget the top 10 things to do in Iceland. Here are the top 12 best things to do!

Top Vacation Packages in Iceland

2 day ice cave tour with south coast waterfalls & jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, 3-day northern lights tour of iceland’s golden circle & south coast with ice caving & glacier hiking, 8-day guided northern lights winter tour of the complete ring road of iceland.

A humpback whale breaching the water.

Whale watching is one of the best things to do in Iceland. Over twenty species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises call the Icelandic coastal waters home, ranging from the small harbor porpoises to the earth’s largest animals, blue whales. The accessibility of whale-watching makes it easy to squeeze in a busy itinerary, as you can go whale-watching from the downtown area of Reykjavik.

The most common species to see are minke whales and humpback whales. There’s also a possibility of seeing rarer animals, such as killer whales and fin whales. While the whales are the star of the show, during a whale-watching tour you can also spot various birds that reside in Iceland , such as skuas, terns, guillemots, and even the colorful puffin .

Whale-watching tours depart from three primary locations: Reykjavik , Akureyri , and Husavik . Husavik is considered the 'whale-watching capital of Europe' due to the abundant animal traffic that passes through its fjords. This activity results from fertile feeding grounds found off Iceland’s northern coasts.

There are over twenty cetacean species that live around Iceland.

You can take a whale-watching tour on either a large vessel or a smaller powerboat.

Bigger boats are perfect for larger tour groups. They have reliable tracking technology, so they’re quite reliable for finding whales.

On the other hand, smaller boats mean smaller groups and a more intimate setting. Powerboats can also get closer to the animals themselves as their motors make less noise.

Top Whale Watching & Puffin Tours

11. go horseback riding .

The Icelandic horse is arguably the country’s most famous four-legged resident. Instantly recognizable for its diminutive stature, short legs, and muscular build, this isolated breed is famed for its reliability, resistance to harsh natural elements, and for having not four, but five gaits. Despite their smaller and sturdy stature, they are always referred to as horses, and you might get funny looks calling them ponies to Icelanders!

The Icelandic horse is such a unique breed that breeding them with other horses is prohibited in Iceland, and when a horse leaves the country, it can never return.

By choosing to partake in an Icelandic horse riding tour , visitors guarantee themselves a tried-and-tested method of experiencing Icelandic nature . Touring by horseback has been a popular way of seeing Iceland for centuries, during which time the original breed arrived from Scandinavia and eventually evolved into the animal we know and love today. It’s also a fun activity to do in Iceland for visitors of all ages!

The Icelandic horse is an animal known for its intelligence and mild temperament.

  • See also: The Icelandic Horse | A Comprehensive Guide 

Knowledgeable and certified instructors lead horseback riding tours for both beginners and experienced riders.

Most horse riding tours in Iceland last for approximately one to four hours (though there are options to extend this) and will offer the chance for a quick trot for those who feel confident in the saddle.

Top Horse Riding Tours

Night outs in Reykjavik are great fun.

What is there to do in Iceland at night? Going out at night is undoubtedly a favorite amongst locals, who will jump at the chance to enjoy a few cold ones before the night’s end. We can’t be sure whether this has anything to do with beer only being legalized in 1989 or perhaps the eternal darkness that blankets the country each year.

Downtown Reykjavik is awash with bars , coffee houses , restaurants , and social events. The vast majority of them will see a decent blend of local Icelanders and outside visitors, thus ensuring a night of exciting conversation. There’s a reason why going out at night is one of the popular things to do in Reykjavik!

To alleviate any stress put on your wallet, most establishments have happy hour (a time when drinks are offered at a discount) for at least three hours. They will often offer other discounts and incentives to keep you happily drinking.

Many of Reykjavik's bars serve cocktails.

  • See also: Nightlife in Iceland

Make the most of it! As with most places worldwide, the longer the night goes on, the more rowdy downtown Reykjavik’s general atmosphere will become. Some bars don't close until around 3-4 AM. During the summer, it's always an interesting experience stepping out of a dim-lit bar and realizing it's bright as day outside, despite it being the middle of the night.

Thankfully, most hotels and guesthouses are within walking distance, so it’s only a short stumble back to your hotel after the party ends.

Top Culture Tours

Námaskarð Pass is a geothermal area in the North of the country.

Lake Myvatn is a beautiful lake located in a highly geothermally active area in the north of Iceland . The lake is the fourth largest body of water in Iceland, and you can find multiple islands strewn across it. There you can also find the geothermal Myvatn Nature Baths , to relax in after a long day of exploring.

The area is renowned for its extensive flora and fauna, stemming from the lake's rich sources of energy and nutrition. Reportedly, you can find 58 different species of birds in the area, making it a great place for bird spotting .

One downside of the wealth of fauna thriving in the area can be found in the lake's name. Myvatn means "Midge Lake" in Icelandic, and during the summer, you will find plenty of midge flying about the lake. It's recommended to wear long-sleeve shirts when visiting and if you want to be completely safe from these annoying flyers, bring a head net.

There are more things to do in North Iceland than just visiting the lake. Visitors will find a variety of activities to do in Iceland during their visit. Check out the Skutustadagigar pseudo-craters, the geothermally active Namaskard Pass , and even Dimmuborgir , or “Dark Fortress,” an area of strange yet hauntingly beautiful volcanic rock formations.

Top Myvatn Tours

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most visited places in Iceland, for valid reasons. It has become world-famous in recent years because of its unique relaxing atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. The geothermal spa is well known for its healing silica mud, which can be applied to the face while staying there.

Its convenient location near the airport also helps make it easy to slip into a busy itinerary, so there's no reason to miss out while staying in Iceland.

Even visitors who only have a limited time in Iceland, such as a long layover, can take a quick Blue Lagoon tour or the shuttle bus to the Blue Lagoon .

If the Blue Lagoon is out of your budget, other spas offer similar experiences, such as the Secret Lagoon near the Golden Circle and the Myvatn Nature Baths in North Iceland.

  • See also: The Ultimate Guide to the Blue Lagoon  

Dettifoss waterfall , found in Vatnajokull National Park in the Northeast of the country, is Europe’s most powerful waterfall and an Iceland must-see attraction. When making your list of where to go in Iceland, don’t forget this waterfall.

  • See also:  Waterfalls in Iceland

Falling 144 feet (44 meters) from the Jokulsa a Fjollum river, Dettifoss waterfall crescendos with a mighty crash into Jokulsargljufur Canyon below, creating one of the most spectacular and dramatic natural sites in the country. It was famously used in the opening scene of the sci-fi blockbuster  Prometheus .

Dettifoss waterfall is accessible from Route 862 and one of the main stops on a Diamond Circle Tour , the northern counterpart of the famed Golden Circle . Alongside Dettifoss waterfall, visitors to the Diamond Circle will also visit Husavik , Asbyrgi Canyon , and Lake Myvatn. 

If you’re planning to visit this part of the country, be sure to check out other things to do in Husavik and things to do in Akureyri , both of which are in North Iceland.

Top Waterfall Tours

The fishing village of Bolungarvík,

International guests tend to visit the Westfjords less often than the South, Southwest, and North because the famous Ring Road goes right past it. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a fantastic place to see. It makes it an even more attractive destination if you want to be away from large crowds.

West Iceland attractions have a rich history steeped in folklore, mysticism, and magic . The Westfjords is as beautiful as it is culturally fascinating. From the towering bird cliffs of Hornstrandir to the tumbling Dynjandi waterfalls , the Westfjords have something for everybody.

The Westfjords boasts the northernmost glacier in Iceland, Drangajokull glacier, the picturesque Arnarfjordur bay, the domineering Bolafjall mountain, and the puffin-rich island of Flatey . All of these and more make up the diverse and staggeringly beautiful landscapes of Northwest Iceland.

Arnarfjörður is the second widest fjord in Iceland, and is found in the Westfjords.

  • See Also:  The Westfjords of Iceland

Those looking to examine the region’s history and culture visit the Arctic Fox Center , the Museum of Witchcraft and Sorcery , the Westfjords Heritage Museum , the White-Tailed Eagle Center and the Icelandic Sea Monster Museum .

Top Westfjords Tours

5. the gem of iceland - jokulsarlon glacier lagoon     .

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon with the Northern Lights above.

In a country full of unique natural wonders, it's hard to pinpoint the one that stands out above the others. However, any discussion about the greatest places to visit in Iceland simply must include Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon . 

  • See also:  Northern Lights at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

This glacier-filled lake should be near the top of your list of what to see in Iceland. Glittering icebergs groan and crunch against one another as they make their way from Breidamerkurjokull glacier to the Atlantic Ocean.

While some visitors choose to partake in a zodiac boat tour , others are content to sit on the shoreline and watch as the playful seals that live in the area dip and dive around the chunks of ice in what may be the most beautiful places in Iceland.

Diamond Beach is only 5 minutes from the lagoon.

Just a five-minute walk from the lagoon itself, visitors will discover Diamond Beach. Icebergs frequently wash ashore on this aptly named stretch of coast. The glittering icebergs contrast with the jet-black sand, resulting in one of Iceland’s most visually stunning natural landscapes.

Top Jokulsarlon Tours

4. take a dip in a natural hot pool.

Relaxing in the hot river at Reykjadalur.

Iceland's geological activity doesn't only mean an abundance of volcanoes and earthquakes. It also means... hot springs!

Iceland is a young land mass, being  only  a few million years old, meaning much of the landscape is still alive. Guests here have popularized the pursuit of churning mud pools, steaming volcanic vents, and erupting hot springs, such as Strokkur  on the  Golden Circle sightseeing tour . These natural wonders are worth adding to your list of what to visit in Iceland.

  • See also:  The 30 Best Hot Springs in Iceland

Thankfully, not all of this activity is quite so dramatic. One of the incredible byproducts of living in a geothermally active country is the abundance of natural hot pools dotting the landscape.

Hot spring tours make for fantastic getaways and are the number one way to counter jet lag or a hangover. They’re also an excellent place to kick back and have a friendly chat with fellow bathers. You could even view the northern lights from the hot spring when conditions are right. How amazing is that!

Top Hot Spring Tours in Iceland

Snowmobiling is an action-packed means of breaking up a day of sightseeing.

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route. It comprises three major attractions: The historic  Thingvellir National Park , the highly active   Geysir Geothermal Area , and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall . These are some of the best things to see in Iceland and it's easily accessible as they are close to the capital city of Reykjavik .

See also: Iceland’s Golden Circle | Ultimate Guide and Top 9 Detours

You can drive the Golden Circle in a few hours, making time for other activities for the rest of the day. Others opt to spread out the drive over a whole day, making time for snorkeling tours and snowmobile tours for extra excitement.

Thingvellir National Park is important to Icelanders for many reasons. It's natural beauty is unique as it is where the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia are drifting part. That creates a dramatic landscape of moss-covered lava fields, deep gorges and waterfalls.

It also has historical significance as Althingi, the oldest working national assembly in the world, was established at Thingvellir in 930 AD. Additionally, it was where Iceland's declaration of independence was formally signed in 1944.

At Thingvellir you will also find  Silfra Fissure , one of the top 10 snorkeling spots in the world.

Þingvellir National Park is Iceland's only UNESCO world heritage site.

  • See also:  National Parks in Iceland  

Haukadalur is home to the hot springs, Geysir and Strokkur, the latter of which erupts to over 65 feet (20 meters) in the air every five minutes or so and is surrounded by numerous steaming fumaroles and bubbling mud pools.

Six miles (10 kilometers) to the north, you will find the third and final stop on the Golden Circle, the Gullfoss waterfall. This 105-foot (32-meter) high is called the "Golden Falls" for a reason, as it cascades over two rocky tiers and into a dramatic valley below. On a sunny day, you will find a rainbow crowned above it, making the view extra special.

Guests who visit Gullfoss waterfall can choose to partake in a snowmobile tour on Iceland’s second-largest glacier, Langjokull . It's an amazing feeling to glide across the snowy surface of a glacier with a white horizon in every direction, and should not be missed!

Top Snowmobile Tours

The Aurora will always fabulous patterns across the sky.

One of Iceland’s biggest draws is the northern lights, otherwise known as the aurora borealis . This natural light display can only be seen in winter and only in the Earth’s northernmost areas. This incredible phenomenon, dancing in ribbon-like waves of purple, green, and gold, must be experienced at least once in a lifetime.

  • See also: The Northern Lights 

The northern lights are infamously elusive. To see them, conditions must be nearly perfect: limited-or-no cloud cover, flaring activity in the magnetosphere, and no light pollution.

When they do appear, there’s no knowing exactly when, where, or how long the lights will dance in the sky. But that’s part of what makes them a must-see in Iceland. Thankfully, there are handy steps you can take to maximize your chances of seeing them.

The Northern Lights most commonly appear in green, though they will often also show up in red, purple and gold.

The best way is to take a guided northern lights tour . Guides know the best and darkest vantage points. They can also provide a wealth of scientific information to add even more color to the experience.

Read our guide on when and where to find the northern lights .

If a tour isn’t something you’re interested in, rent a car in Iceland and drive to a location away from the light pollution in Reykjavik. More remote rural areas will have better visibility than the city. Then be patient! While you can’t control the weather, you can do your best to be ready if the conditions are right.

Top Northern Lights Tours & Holidays

1. go glacier hiking and ice caving       .

The dazzling interior of an Icelandic ice cave.

As its name suggests, Iceland is a land defined by frozen landscapes. While some think Iceland is not quite frozen enough to warrant the name (compared to Greenland), it's still a country of floating icebergs, sweeping glaciers, and dazzling blue ice caves.

During the winter, Iceland truly lives up to its name. It’s an environment perpetually trapped between darkness and glittering white snow. There are many cool things to do in Iceland - literally and figuratively!

The ultimate icy experience is entering one of the country’s gorgeous blue ice caves . These are, however, only accessible in the winter months.

Due to the effects of global warming, Iceland's glaciers are at greater risk than ever before.

Thankfully, Iceland’s best frozen attractions, its glaciers, are accessible to explorers throughout the year via glacier hikes . This availability is good news for those visitors looking to see these mighty giants up close and even better for those willing to slip on a pair of crampons and take to hiking the ice cap itself.

Top Ice Cave Tours

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25 Absolute-Best Places to Visit in Iceland (+Things to Do & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2024

25 Absolute-Best Places to Visit in Iceland (+Things to Do & Tips)

There is so much written about Iceland that it can get really overwhelming to figure out where exactly to go and what are the best places to visit in Iceland . In this article, we cover some of the most popular areas but also some lesser-known places that I think are worth visiting in Iceland the most. Find out!

Good to know: This article with top things to do in Iceland was initially published after our second trip to Iceland. In the meantime, we have visited Iceland 6 times, and so it was time to update it. I’ve now been to Iceland in all seasons and traveled in pretty much all regions. While there is still so much more to be explored, I feel that I can now give you a much better idea of the best areas to visit and the very best places to see in Iceland.

While the list now contains more than the initial top 10 places, it does not list every single attraction or landmark separately. We also didn’t include all the details about everything that you can do in Iceland.

The aim of this article is to give you an overview of the most beautiful areas, the best things to do, and the nicest places in Iceland that are worth visiting the most . So that you have a good idea of where to travel in Iceland without getting too overwhelmed with all the details.

BEST OF ICELAND IN A NUTSHELL: * MUST-SEE:  South Coast, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Golden Circle, Reykjavik, Snaefellsnes Peninsula. * MUST DO: Blue Lagoon  and/or  Sky Lagoon (book well ahead!!!). * FUN TO DO: Glacier hiking ,  whale watching ,  Silfra snorkeling . * WINTER:   Ice caves  and  Northern lights . * MUST TRY: Icelandic hot dog ( pylsur ), Skyr, lamb, fish stew ( plokkfiskur ). * WHERE TO STAY:   Where to stay in Iceland  –  Where to stay in Reykjavik  –  Where to stay in Snaefellsnes Peninsula .

TIP: If you are looking for more information about each area mentioned in our guide below, please make sure to read the more detailed articles that we link to from this post. If you are looking for ideas on how to plan your trip and day-by-day itinerary suggestions, please check our guides below:

  • 4-day South Coast itinerary .
  • 7-day winter itinerary .
  • One-week Iceland itinerary for summer months .
  • Iceland Ring Road itinerary in 10 days .
  • Iceland itineraries for any duration (1-14 Days) .

What to see in Iceland - best places and regions

Without further ado, here is a list of the best places to visit in Iceland :

1. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is not coincidentally the first one mentioned on this list. If there is one place that you really don’t want to miss in Iceland, then it’s Jokulsarlon.

The glacier lagoon is just amazing and the scenery changes all the time. Icebergs move all the time and no two visits are ever the same. In addition to the lagoon itself, you should also visit the so-called Diamond Beach , just across the road. When the weather conditions are favorable, you can see the most extraordinary ice formations scattered all over the beach. Shining in the sunlight like huge diamonds…

For me, this beach is even more special than the lagoon itself. Especially on a sunny winter day or at sunset. Magical!

TIP: You may want to check out the nearby Fjalljökull glacial lagoon as well. It’s smaller and less touristic than Jökulsárlón, and it’s very nice too. Nearby Stokksnes headland is also well worth a visit.

How to visit: You can see the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon from ashore, or take a boat tour (May-Oct) between the icebergs. You can choose between an amphibian boat or a zodiac tour.

Places to visit in Iceland - Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon

2. South Coast – Vík Beaches

Iceland’s South Coast is one of the most visited areas in the country and rightly so. This area is simply stunning!

The picturesque village of Vik and the nearby Reynisfjara beach and the impressive coastline are well worth it in any season. Vik black sand beach was once ranked as one of the ten most beautiful non-tropical beaches in the world.

TIP: Don’t miss the nearby Dyrhólaey Lighthouse and the stunning rock formations visible from there.

How to visit: There are several parking areas along the coast near Vik. You’ll need a car to get here. Alternatively, you can visit with a South Coast tour from Reykjavik .

Important! Be VERY careful on this beach – the waves here are unpredictable and it’s very dangerous to walk close to the water. Even if the water looks calm, stay as far away as you can. Under no circumstances go into the sea at Reynisfjara beach!

LEARN MORE : Best Stops & Attractions of Iceland’s South Coast

Vik black sand beach in Iceland at sunset in winter

3. Golden Circle

By far the most popular place to visit in Iceland is the so-called Golden Circle . The Golden Circle, formerly also known as the Golden Triangle, refers to three main locations – Thingvellir National Park , Gullfoss waterfall , and Geysir area with a very active Strokkur geyser.

Thingvellir National Park is best known for its continental divide, the Mid Atlantic Ridge. It’s a place where you can see the opening between the tectonic plates of Europe and North America. It’s a beautiful area to explore on foot. Don’t miss the somewhat hidden Öxarárfoss waterfall.

Gullfoss , or The Golden Waterfall, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Must see!

You just cannot go to Iceland and not see a geyser erupt! Geysir area is a geothermal area where the mother of all geysers – Geysir – is located. While Geysir hasn’t been active in a long time, there is a smaller geyser called Strokkur that erupts at regular intervals every 5-10 minutes. So you never have to wait long in order to see it.

TIP: While extremely touristy, the Golden Circle is popular for a reason. If you can, visit early in the morning or late in the evening in order to avoid the biggest crowds.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to explore the Golden Circle. Alternatively, there are lots of organized Golden Circle tours from Reykjavik .

Oxararfoss waterfall in Thingvellir NP in Iceland in winter

4. Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Somewhat lesser visited than the previously mentioned places, Snæfellsnes Peninsula is another region that you really should see in Iceland. This is one of the places that you can quite easily in all seasons.

Best known for its picturesque Kirkjufell mountain and Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, this area has so much more to offer than that! Volcanic landscapes, rugged coastlines, stunning rock formations, countless waterfalls, beautiful beaches, colorful lighthouses, quaint little villages, and tiny picturesque churches… These are just a few of the reasons to visit Snaefellsnes.

TIP: If you are visiting in summer and have the time, I recommend at least 2 days for this area.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get around. Alternatively, join one of the guided Snaefellsnes day tours from Reykjavik .

LEARN MORE: Complete Guide to Snaefellsnes Best Things to Do in Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Ultimate guide to visiting Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Iceland

5. Blue Lagoon & Sky Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction and is considered the no. 1 must-visit place in Iceland. It’s a huge outdoor geothermal pool with a distinctive blue or milky blue color and nice warm temperatures.

Good to know: Blue Lagoon is extremely popular so it’s essential to reserve your tickets in advance. You can book tickets here .

How to visit: Blue Lagoon is located close to Reykjavik KEF airport and you can either get there by car or by taking a Blue Lagoon bus transfer from Reykjavik . It takes about an hour to get there from the city and you will probably spend at least 2 hours in the water, so count at least 4 hours for your visit.

TIP: You can also visit the Blue Lagoon on your way to or from the airport. Bus transfers are available for Keflavik airport as well (see the link above).

Alternative: Instead of Blue Lagoon (or in addition to), you may want to visit the amazing geothermal pool Sky Lagoon . It’s been opened a few years ago and has quickly become a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

Sky Lagoon is located in Reykjavik, much closer to town, and offers amazing sea views and a unique Spa ritual. You can reserve your tickets here (also here, you really have to book in advance!).

Blue Lagoon geothermal pool is one of the most popular places to visit in Iceland

6. Skógafoss & Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls

After Gullfoss, these are the most visited waterfalls in Iceland. Located along the South Coast, both – Skógafoss & Seljalandsfoss – are among the must-see landmarks in Iceland.

Skogafoss is a really majestic waterfall. It’s so photogenic that if you ever see pictures of a waterfall in Iceland, it’s most likely to be Skogafoss. You can also climb the stairs all the way to the top of the waterfall for some great views of the area.

Seljalandsfoss is the only Icelandic waterfall that I know of where you can walk behind the falling water. In the winter, the waterfall is partially frozen and the whole area around it looks like an ice skating rink, so the walk behind it is usually closed. It’s still nice to see and worth a short stop. But it’s most magical when you can walk behind this waterfall and experience how special this place is. Prepare to get wet!

TIP: Don’t miss the hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall located inside the gorge just a short walk from Seljalandsfoss. It takes just a few minutes to visit – follow the path to the left from Seljalandsfoss and you’ll see informational panels on the right side.

Iceland must see - Skogafoss waterfall

Myvatn Lake in the North of Iceland is another place you really should visit in Iceland. This area is very diverse and has a lot to offer, especially in the warmer season.

Here are some of the best things to do at Myvatn: a walk to the caldera of Krafla volcano and the lava fields, short walk to the pseudocraters at Myvatn Lake , Leirhnjukur hiking trail, Dimmuborgir area of remarkable lava formations and the 45-minute walk to Kirkjan lava tube structure.

Námaskarð geothermal area is also a must-see in North Iceland! It’s an easily reachable compact area with bubbling mud pools and colorful steaming geothermal features. You have to prepare for the smell though.

Myvatn Nature Baths are also not to be missed. This geothermal pool offers beautiful views, and it’s less busy and cheaper than the Blue Lagoon. However, it’s changed a lot in recent years, and so if you travel here in summer, expect it to be very busy. You may want to book your tickets in advance here too!

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get to Myvatn. If you are stopping in Akureyri on a cruise ship, you can visit Myvatn with this popular shore excursion .

LEARN MORE: Things to Do in Myvatn

Myvatn Lake - one of the best places to visit in Iceland

8. Húsavík

Known as the best place to see whales in Iceland , Húsavík definitely deserves a mention as one of the best places to visit in Iceland as well. If you are visiting Northern Iceland in summer, whale watching in Husavik is a must.

The town is very picturesque too and you can visit the Húsavík Whale Museum .

GeoSea – geothermal sea baths are also very popular and boast stunning sea views. It’s one of the most scenic pools in Iceland.

TIP: There are many whale watching tours that run from Husavik , but they’re extremely popular and have to be booked in advance. One of the best options I always hear people mention is this tour with Gentle Giants .

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get to Husavik.

Husavik town in North Iceland

9. Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel

Located just a short drive from Reykjavik, Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel is one of the most unique places to visit in Iceland.

This underground lava tube was created by a volcanic eruption over 5,000 years ago and is one of the longest lava tubes in Iceland. It’s definitely the easiest one to access and you can visit here all year round.

Good to know: The lava tunnel can only be visited with a guided tour. Tours take about 1 hour and there are several time slots during the day, depending on the season.

How to visit: If you have a car, you can easily drive here on your own (just don’t forget to book a time slot for your visit so that you are sure to have a spot). Alternatively, this is a very nice 3-hour excursion from Reykjavik, and there are several companies organizing tours here.

Raufarholshellir lava tunnel near Reykjavik Iceland

10. Westfjords Region

If you want to get a bit off the beaten path in Iceland and discover some of its most impressive, vast landscapes, then you really should consider visiting the Westfjords region .

It’s quite far away from everything, however, distances are immense, and most roads are gravel. So it’s best to travel here in summer and come well prepared.

Some of the most beautiful places not to be missed in the Westfjords are Dynjandi waterfall (most beautiful waterfall in Iceland), Látrabjarg bird cliffs (best place to see puffins in summer), Rauðisandur beach (endless red sand beach; unique in Iceland), and Ísafjörður town.

You’ll need at least 2-3 days to see the whole region and it will be rushed, but you can also see the main attractions in 1-2 days.

How to visit: You’ll need a 4WD or a 4×4 vehicle in the Westfjords. Make sure that your car insurance covers driving on gravel roads.

TIP: The easiest way to get to the Westfjords is by taking a car ferry from Stykkishólmur on Snaefellsnes Peninsula. That way, you can also just come for one or two days and see the landmarks on the southern side of the Westfjords region.

LEARN MORE: Westfjords One Day Itinerary

Places to visit in Iceland - Westfjords

11. Skaftafell National Park

Skaftafell NP is one of the easiest-accessible and most beautiful National Parks in Iceland. It, therefore, deserves a mention on every list of the best places to visit in Iceland.

There are many short hiking trails in this park. The most popular hike is that to Svartifoss – a waterfall surrounded by impressive black basalt columns.

If you have a few hours to spare, consider the Svartifoss – Sjónarsker – Sel walk and the walk to the glacier Skaftafellsjökull. Alternatively, the Svartifoss – Sjónarnípa hike is somewhat longer but even more impressive.

How to visit: Skaftafell NP is located just off the Ring Road in the south of Iceland. You can easily get here in a regular car. There is a Visitors’ Center where you get more information and find detailed hiking maps.

Things to see in Iceland - Svartifoss in Skaftafell NP

12. Icelandic Highlands

The biggest part of Iceland has hardly any roads and is very little explored, but if there is one part of Iceland that is worth visiting more than anything else, it’s the Icelandic Highlands !

Since the highlands are so vast and there are so many beautiful hidden gems, it would be impossible to mention even a small part of them. At the same time, most areas are very remote and require local knowledge and super jeeps with oversized tires in order to visit them… Furthermore, the highlands are only accessible from approximately mid-June to mid-September.

Some of my favorite places in the highlands that are somewhat easy to visit are Kerlingarfjöll , Háifoss , and Landmannalaugar . Haifoss waterfall is quite easy to visit on your own as well.

How to visit: You’ll need a good 4WD or a 4×4 for all of the places mentioned above, but the easiest way to visit is by joining a tour. If you want to get a taste of what the highlands are about, the most popular highlands tours are those to Landmannalaugar. You can check availability and book Landmannalaugar tours here .

LEARN MORE: Icelandic Highlands Tour with a Private Driver

Landmannalaugar in Iceland on a beautiful day in September

13. Reykjanes Peninsula

One of the easiest areas to visit in Iceland from this list, the Reykjanes Peninsula is often overlooked by most Iceland visitors. Their loss! This stunning area close to Keflavik airport and Reykjavik city is home to the popular Blue Lagoon and is well worth a visit too.

With colorful geothermal areas, endless lava fields, and stunning rugged coastlines, Reykjanes Peninsula is like the best of Iceland in a nutshell.

Don’t miss the Valahnúkamöl Cliffs at Reykjnesviti Lighthouse and Seltún Geothermal Area . Bridge Between Continents is another nice spot, just as Strandarkirkja and Garður . Krysuvikurberg Cliffs are really beautiful too, but require a 4 WD vehicle to get there.

How to visit: You can easily visit most of the attractions of the Reykjanes Peninsula by yourself with a regular car. Alternatively, join one of the guided tours from Reykjavik . Some areas require a 4WD or even a super jeep.

LEARN MORE: Ultimate Guide to Reykjanes Peninsula

The Last Great Auk statue and Valahnukamol Cliffs on Reykjanes Peninsula Iceland

14. Recently-Active Volcanos

This is the newest addition to the best things to do in Iceland – hiking to one of the recently erupted volcanos!

In March 2021, there was an eruption of the Fagradalsfjall volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula. The nearby Geldingadalir valley was filled with burning lava and the scenery was changing daily. The volcano quickly became the new most popular sight in Iceland attracting locals and tourists alike.

More recently, in August 2022, another volcano erupted just near the first site – Meradalir .

In the summer of 2023, Fagradalsfjall volcano erupted again, but this time it didn’t last long. In the winter of 2023, there was another massive eruption in the same area. It even triggered some evacuations and closures.

At the moment of the last update, these volcano eruptions have stopped. But many of the eruption sites remain a very popular place to see in Iceland, attracting lots of tourists every day.

Good to know: The easiest way to get to the volcano eruption sites is by car or by joining a tour (on foot or by helicopter). There are quite a few volcano tours available . Most of them include pick-up/ drop-off in Reykjavik and some also visit a few of the main highlights of the Reykjanes Peninsula or include tickets to the Blue Lagoon.

Best things to do in Iceland - Fagradalsfjall volcano

15. Tröllaskagi Peninsula

If there is one area in North Iceland that seems to be completely overlooked by international tourists, it’s the beautiful town of Siglufjörður and its surroundings, aka the Tröllaskagi Peninsula . It’s simply stunning!

The fishermen’s town Siglufjörður is extremely picturesque and The Herring Era Museum is well worth a visit. But probably even more impressive is the scenic drive to get there. Road 76 which leads from Varmahlíð to Siglufjörður is probably the most beautiful scenic drive in Iceland.

TIP: Make sure to stop at Hofsós swimming pool . Don’t miss the Grafarkirkja (said to be the oldest church in Iceland)! Víðimýrarkirkja and Glaumbær Farm & Museum are also worth a visit.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to explore this area.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Siglufjörður and Trollaskagi Peninsula

Best towns in Iceland - Siglufjordur

16. Heimaey Island

Part of Iceland’s Westman Islands, Heimaey Island is the biggest island and one of the most beautiful places in Iceland.

It’s a place where you can get acquainted with the more traditional way of living in Iceland and feel what it’s really like to live on a remote island. Especially if you visit off the main season.

The landscapes here are stunning, and in summer, you can see lots of puffins on the island. There is also a whale sanctuary where you can see white Beluga whales.

How to visit: You’ll need to take a ferry to get here. Private tours from Reykjavik are also possible, but very expensive. For comparison, be sure to check this option as well – the prices depend on your group size.

LEARN MORE: Visiting Westman Islands

Travel guide to Westman Islands in Iceland

17. Dettifoss & Asbyrgi

There are two more places in Northern Iceland that are well worth visiting and deserve a mention among the best things to do in Iceland – Dettifoss Waterfall and Asbyrgi Canyon .

Dettifoss is Europe’s most powerful waterfall. With 100 meters (330 ft) in width, a drop of 44 meters (144 ft), and an average water flow of 193 m³/s, this is the place where you feel the power of nature as nowhere else in Iceland. Must see!

Asbyrgi Canyon is a somewhat lesser-known place located between Dettifoss and Husavik and it’s well worth a short stop or a longer visit. It always amazes me how such completely different landscapes can be so close to each other and the tranquility of Asbyrgi is just incomparable to the roaring powerful Dettifoss.

How to visit: Road #862 to Dettifoss is paved and easily accessible (road #864 is not and requires a 4WD). Road #861 to Asbyrgi is also paved. However, road #862 north of Dettifoss is gravel and it’s best to have a 4WD if you are planning to drive here. Alternatively, you can reach Asbyrgi from Husavik.

Places to visit in Iceland - Dettifoss

18. Vatnajökull Glacier

With so many glaciers in Iceland, it’s hard to pick just one to mention as the best one to visit. However, Vatnajökull Glacier is the largest ice cap in Iceland. So if you visit just one glacier in Iceland, it will likely be this one.

With a total area of +- 7,900 km 2 (3,100 sq mi), Vatnajokull is immense. It has around 30 glacier tongues (outlet glaciers), each with its own name, and so it’s likely that you’ll see those names mentioned in the description of various glacier tours and activities.

How to visit: You can see various glacier tongues from the Ring Road in southern Iceland. But the best way to visit glaciers in Iceland is by booking a glacier hiking tour , visiting the ice caves , and snowmobiling . Keep in mind that you need to book an organized tour for any activities where you go on the glacier itself.

In winter – from about October to March – you can also see some of the most beautiful natural ice caves in Iceland. You can only visit with a tour and you should book in advance. There is also one place – Katla – where you can visit a natural ice cave in the summer as well . This is the best tour that goes to Katla ice cave and it departs from Vik. There is also a day tour that visits this ice cave from Reykjavik.

READ ALSO: Glacier Hiking in Iceland

Hiking on Solheimajokull glacier in Iceland

19. East Fjords

Another region that is often overlooked by travelers who just drive the Ring Road from South to North is the East Fjords . It’s a stunning region that is well worth visiting if you pass eastern Iceland!

The nicest towns are probably Eskifjörður and Seyðisfjörður , the latter is famous for its colorful rainbow path leading to the church. In season, Borgarfjörður Eystri is a good place to see puffins.

There are also lots of waterfalls in the area, hiking trails, Laugarfell hot pool, and Petra’s Stone collection in Stöðvarfjörður…

The eastern part of Iceland is where you’re most likely to see reindeer.

How to visit: You will need a car to visit the East Fjords.

Things to do in Iceland - visit East Fjords

20. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon near Kirkjubaejarklaustur used to be one of my favorite places in Iceland. It was so peaceful and undiscovered. Nowadays, it’s so popular that the walking path along the side of the canyon had to be closed so that nature could recover a bit.

There are other incredibly beautiful canyons in Iceland, but this one is the easiest to access. So if you want to visit a canyon in Iceland, Fjaðrárgljúfur is well worth a trip. Just please be respectful to nature and obey the signs.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get here. This Jokulsarlon day tour also stops at Fjadrargljufur.

Fjadrargljufur Canyon is one of the must see places in Iceland

21. Goðafoss Waterfall

Goðafoss , meaning the waterfall of Gods, is one of the most visited waterfalls in Northern Iceland.

It’s extremely beautiful and especially on a sunny day. Often, you can see a rainbow over the falls and it looks simply magical.

How to visit: Located just next to the Ring Road, Godafoss is very easy to get to by car. All North Iceland tours that visit Myvatn stop here as well. Paved walking paths connected by a pedestrian bridge allow you to see the waterfall from two sides of the river.

Places to see in Iceland - Godafoss

22. Hvitserkur

Hvitserkur is a beautiful rhino-shaped rock along the northern coast of Iceland. While the rock itself is very impressive, the entire area around it is simply phenomenal.

We were not sure if it was worth the long drive, but it absolutely is. I, therefore, think that Hvitserkur deserves to be mentioned among the most beautiful places in Iceland. If you are driving in the north anyway, this is just a rather short detour from the Ring Road.

How to visit: You’ll need a car to get here. The road is gravel but in good condition.

LEARN MORE: Hvitserkur

Iceland best places - Hvitserkur

23. Reykjavík

While I think that Iceland’s beauty lies mostly in its nature and people rather than its towns, no list of the best places in Iceland would be complete without mentioning its capital city, Reykjavik .

Reykjavik has changed beyond recognition in the past years and it has more to offer to tourists than ever before.

In the past, I would have told you that one day is more than enough to see all the highlights, which include the views from Hallgrimskirkja church tower, discovering the streets of the colorful town center , feeding ducks at the Reykjavik Lake Tjörnin , visiting Harpa concert hall, seeing the Sun Voyager statue, and visiting some museums.

However, there is now so much more to see and do in Reykjavik than that, with new amazing attractions opening up all over the city all the time. So if you do have some extra time to spare, plan a few days in Reykjavik (see here our guide on where to stay in Reykjavik ).

TIP: My favorite museum that I absolutely recommend in Reykjavik is Perlan . Here you can find our guide to Perlan, the best museum in Reykjavik .

Other great attractions include FlyOver Iceland , Whales of Iceland , Magic Ice Bar , and the geothermal pool with cliffside ocean views, Sky Lagoon .

LEARN MORE: Top Things to Do in Reykjavik & Reykjavik 1-Day Itinerary

Hallgrimskirkja church in Reykjavik

24. Langjökull Glacier

Langjökull is the second-largest glacier in Iceland. Its name means “the long glacier”.

Because of its proximity to the popular Golden Circle, it’s easy to visit Langjökull glacier when you are touring the area or on a day trip from Reykjavik. It’s also possible to reach the glacier from Húsafell which is closer to Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Important: Keep in mind that you need to go with a local guide who knows the area and potential dangers. You can see what kinds of tours are available here .

The glacier is vast and rather diverse, so there are some unique glacier tours here. There are also some ice caves that you can visit. There is a man-made ice cave that is accessible the whole year round, but there is also a natural ice cave , which is much more impressive, of course.

For many years, the most popular way to visit Langjökull Glacier was by snowmobile which allows you to cover big distances in a short time (there are snowmobile tours starting from Reykjavik or from the Golden Circle).

But if you want to see the ice caves of Langjokull, you should opt for a glacier truck tour instead. You can visit a man-made ice cave from Húsafell , but we recommend the newly-discovered natural ice cave that you can visit from the Golden Circle side instead. This recently launched glacier truck tour is one of the best options if you want to visit a natural ice cave near Reykjavik!

No matter which tour you choose, a visit to Langjökull Glacier is one of the most amazing experiences in Iceland. It will definitely make your trip so much more memorable!

Natural ice cave on Langjokull Glacier in Iceland

25. Akureyri

For those of you who are wondering why Akureyri is at the bottom of this list… While I think that it’s a nice place to stop for an hour or two if you have plenty of time in Iceland, I also believe that there are so many nicer places to see in North Iceland that are worth your time more.

That being said, if you go to Akureyri, take some time to walk through the old town and also don’t miss the Botanical Gardens . The new attraction here is the geothermal pool called Forest Lagoon . Akureyri is also a popular place for whale-watching excursions .

There are also some nice places to see nearby, so you could use Akureyri as a ‘base’ location for exploring more of Northern Iceland.

If you are just passing by, you may want to stop at the Christmas House just outside of town.

Akureyri town in Iceland

So, this is our guide to some of the very best places to visit in Iceland.

I hope that it will inspire you to discover this beautiful country beyond its most popular tourist attractions like the Golden Circle, Reykjavik, and the South Coast.

Below, is a video showcasing some of our favorite places in Iceland . Take a look! And further down, you can find links to our other guides that should help you plan your own dream trip to Iceland.

How to plan a road trip in Iceland:

  • Itinerary Suggestions: Iceland itinerary for 1 to 14 days
  • The musts: 4 days in Iceland
  • Best summer itinerary for one week: 7 days in Iceland
  • Complete Ring Road: Iceland’s Ring Road in 10 days
  • Winter trip: Iceland winter itinerary for one week
  • A bit off the beaten path: 10 days in Iceland (summer only)

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Iceland

Planning a trip to Iceland and have questions? Please check our recommended articles below and in our Iceland travel guide .

If you have a specific question about any of the places mentioned in this article or want to share your favorite landmarks or attractions in Iceland, feel free to leave a reply below.

More tips for your trip to Iceland:

  • Good to know: Iceland Travel Tips
  • When to go: When to Visit Iceland – Summer vs. Winter
  • Airport transfers: How to Get to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport
  • Budget: How Expensive is Iceland (& How to Save Money)
  • Packing: What to Wear in Iceland in Winter & What to Pack for Iceland in Summer
  • Tours: Best Tours and Day Trips in Iceland & Best Winter Day Trips from Reykjavik
  • Winter trip: Tips for Visiting Iceland in Winter & Northern Lights in Iceland
  • For at home: Nordic Gifts

READ ALSO: Northern Lights in Iceland

TIP: Planning a trip to Iceland and have questions? Join our Facebook Group for Iceland and Scandinavia Travel !

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Must see places in Iceland - ultimate guide

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Gustavo Correa

Monday 11th of March 2024

Hi, Jurga. Very nice and interesting your blog. I'm planning a trip with my family to see the Auroras borealis. I know to see Auroras borealis is very dependent from the time and place you go, is it Iceland a place where you can see the auroras borealis with great certainty? Any recommendations on best dates and place to go for it? Thanks, Gustavo

Tuesday 12th of March 2024

Hi Gustavo, Iceland is a good place to see auroras, but it's impossible to predict. If it's cloudy for days in a row, you may not see anything. But if you are lucky, you may see them multiple times during your winter trip. For more practical information, take a look at our guide to the Northern Lights in Iceland for more information. Also remember that there are so many other great things to do in Iceland in winter! That being said, if auroras are your main interest, then consider other places that are closer to the aurora circle = the chances of seeing them are higher. One of the best places for the Northern Lights in the world is Tromso in Northern Norway. But also there, if you are very unlucky with the weather, you may not see them. The good thing is that being that close to the aurora circle, you can see some amazing displays even when the aurora activity is very weak. That's not the case in Iceland where you need a much higher solar activity in order to see really strong auroras. Here you can find our guide to the Northern Lights in Tromso. Whatever destination you choose, the longer you stay, the more chances you have.

Wednesday 29th of November 2023

Darn if I wasn't booked up for the next 2 years I would go here next summer. I can plan this for 2026 though.

Friday 1st of December 2023

Thursday 30th of November 2023

Ha ha, life's too short for all the trips we want to make, isn't it... But if you are making plans for the future, you really can't go wrong with visiting Iceland. It's so different than anywhere else. In the meantime, enjoy all your other trips!

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Hi, Your blog is great and super helpfu!! I love all of the details. I am going to Iceland in February (less than a month). I am doing a 5 day tour that includes a hike on a glacier. I am going a few days early and have 1 day to do an excursion. I am debating between the Glacier Lagoon and Kalta Ice Caves. We will not be going to Vik on the tour. Any thoughts on which is better? If you recommend the ice caves, I was planning on use viatour, but the Kalta tour is no longer available. Any suggestions on tour companies? Thanks, Alissa

Tuesday 24th of January 2023

@Jurga, Hi Thanks for the reply! Unfortunately, I can't get my money back and have already booked my tickets. Here is the tour that I am doing. I have some free time in in Reyjavick on my own before the tour starts and was thinking of doing an excursion. Unfortunately, 2 excursions won't work. I tried to past the website and highlights for my tour, but I couldn't. I will email you the link. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Hi Alissa, I'm not sure I'm following - you are going on a 5-day tour in winter and it doesn't include Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and doesn't visit any ice cave??? All the best winter tours - even those that take just 2-3 days include both of these in their itinerary (see a 3-day tour and a 2-day tour). Plus, the ice caves that these tours visit are nicer than Katla, but they are too far to visit from Reykjavik in just a day (that's why it's best to go on a 2-3 day tour). Not knowing what you will see on your tour, it's difficult to suggest much. Except that maybe you should book another tour that has a better itinerary... Sorry, but I can't imagine how they wouldn't at least include Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in a 5-day itinerary... It's really one of the must-see places in Iceland. Or are you talking about some other glacier lagoon? Or maybe you didn't read the description of your tour in detail... Anyway, if you want to visit Katla, there are still plenty of tours available for February (see on GetYourGuide - it's better than Viator anyway ;)). Hope this helps. Have a great time in Iceland - no matter what you end up visiting, you'll love it!

Friday 28th of January 2022

thank you so much i got all of my homework done because of this!

Glad to help, Landon. We have lots more info and travel itineraries for Iceland that can help you plan the trip. Happy travels!

Sunday 22nd of August 2021

Hello, this article is very helpful. My daughter wants to go to Iceland for her sweet 16 and I was wondering what the odds of us catching the northern lights in November are? What do you recommend so that I can make her bday memorable? Thanks in advance!

Thursday 6th of October 2022

@Jurga, You recommend not driving on your own - would you say this is due to unpredictable weather or because it is generally not safe to drive on your own in Iceland? Wondering if when I visit, if my home base is in Reykjavik, would it be a good idea to rent a car for a couple days to do a few day trips on our own as opposed to hiring a guide for a few?

Tuesday 24th of August 2021

Hi Jessica, in general, November is a great time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, but it remains a natural phenomenon (and the weather will have a big impact as well), so you can never guarantee that you'll get to see them. I was once in Iceland in November for a week and we had the best weather and the most amazing aurora displays a few times during the trip. But you can also have snowstorms and cloudy skies and not see much. So don't plan the trip just for the auroras - there's so much to see in Iceland and the Northern Lights will be just a nice extra if you get to see them.

I recommend either staying in Reykjavik and booking day tours or taking a multi-day tour with a local guide/driver if visiting Iceland in November. Don't drive on your own! If you stay in Reykjavik, you can visit some cool geothermal baths - Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, and take some nice tours. There are just so many choices, it's hard to suggest something specifically not knowing what your interests are. This might give you some ideas: * Best half-day trips from Reykjavik * Best winter tours from Reykjavik Don't miss the Golden Circle and especially the South Coast! There are also museums, nice restaurants, and other activities in town. Here are just a few suggestions: * Perlan museum * Fly over Iceland experience

For more info on the Northern Lights, please check this article: Northern Lights in Iceland.

One more recommendation comes to mind - you could stay in Reykjavik for the majority of the trip and book a 2-day tour for the South Coast. 2 days is a good time to see the highlights of the South Coast and visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon which is quite far to be done in a day. In addition, most 2-day tours include a visit to an ice cave and that can be the most amazing experience that your daughter will never forget! Take a look at this highly-rated 2-day tour for more info.

Hope this helps.

  • Things to do

10 Iceland Attractions You Must Explore Close to Reykjavík

6 minute read

ITo Author Bio PurpleFemale Transparent BG.png

By Ragnheiður Harpa Haraldsdóttir

Reykjavík rooftops in the summertime seen from Hallgrímskirkja

Iceland is known globally for its abundance of stunning natural wonders. The recognition is well deserved, but what truly makes it stand out from other countries is the short distance between these attractions.

At every turn, there is a new sight, prettier than the last and you will barely have enough time to comprehend the last when you have already arrived at the next one.

  • Explore all of these top 10 sights on a multi-day tour from Reykjavík .

Mountains near Hofn in East Iceland

Glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, moss covered lava fields, volcanoes, and more await anyone who visits. Some say that driving around Iceland feels like a few different planets and we couldn’t agree more. Luckily, many of these locations are only about an hour away from the capital and close to one and other so you can easily see so many of them in the same day trip out from the city.

Let’s learn about these stunners!

Top 10 attractions near Reykjavík

1. whale watching.

You might think you need to travel far to witness these gentle giants in the natural habitat but in Iceland, there is really no need. The whale watching boats take off right from the old harbor in downtown Reykjavík and you will be in the midst of it all in less than an hour!

  • Related: Your guide to the best whale watching in Iceland.

Whale-watching safari, Iceland

Watch the humpbacks playfully jump around with Harpa concert hall in the background, creating the most dazzling mixture of nature and city. This is your chance to get to know them up close and personal but still leaving enough time for other activities that day.

2. Þingvellir National Park

Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park is one of the more historic places you’ll find in Iceland. It is where the Icelandic parliament was founded in the year 930, making it one of the oldest in world history.

From that time, the Vikings would annually come together to rule in matters and settle disputes. This event was the biggest and most important gathering of this time and most of them are recorded in detail in the writings from the period.

Nowadays, it is renowned for its natural beauty, rugged lava, birch trees, waterfalls, and glacial water-filled ravines. It is a UNESCO-listed heritage site and one of the filming locations for Game of Thrones . The towering lava rocks of Lögberg acted as the fortress around the Eyrie and play a vital part in many of those scenes.

Thingvellir National Park, Golden Circle, Iceland

It is one of the three stops that make up the Golden Circle , Iceland’s most popular tour and a real must-see while in Iceland.

3. Gullfoss

Gullfoss or ‘Golden Falls’ is located about 1.5 hours away from the capital. It runs through a glacier-carved gully and drops two stories down, creating the most awe-inspiring visuals. It is one of the 3 stops on the Golden Circle and for many the ultimate highlight. Its water originates in the Langjökull glacier, which is located a bit further north in the highlands and therefore changes color seasonally.

start of rainbow in the mist of multi-tiered waterfall in canyon

The location has 3 different viewing platforms to enjoy the waterfall. We recommend to take your time and explore all of them. This place is surely worth it!   

4. Geysir (and Strokkur)

Lots of people don’t know this, but this Geysir is the namesake of all the geysers of the world. It is Iceland’s geological pride and joy and undoubtedly a token of the island.

It used to spout up into the air, higher than the tallest building in Iceland and lasted for hours on end. Unfortunately, an earthquake stopped it from going off in recent times but his baby brother now holds the fort.

His name is Strokkur and he sure knows how to put on a show. This frolic water wonder goes off every 4–10 minutes with a jaw-dropping audience to witness and never fails to amaze.

  • Witness Strokkur erupt on a Golden Circle tour .

Geysir geothermal area, Golden Circle, Iceland

5. Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss was first made world-famous when it appeared on the show Amazing Race, but now it is known as the ‘waterfall you can walk behind’.

Seljalandsfoss originates in the voluminous Eyjafjallajökull glacier volcano that made the headlines in 2010 when it stopped all air traffic when it erupted out of the blue. Its smoke pillar clouded the view and no one could fly over the country.

Thankfully the world quickly forgave Iceland. Now the waterfall and its feeding glacier volcano are some of the most sought-after attractions in the country.

woman-standing-at-seljalandsfoss-getty-images-unsplash.jpg.webp

The waterfall is located only about 1 hour and 25 minutes away from Reykjavík.

  • Related: Best waterfalls in Iceland and where to find them.

6. Skógafoss

The Skógafoss waterfall is a powerful chute on the south coast of Iceland. It has appeared in numerous TV shows and Hollywood movies. Some of the better-recognized ones are Vikings, Thor, and now Game of Thrones season 8!

Skogafoss waterfall, South Iceland

Legend says that there is hidden treasure behind it guarded by the forces of the falls. Whether you believe it or not one thing is for sure, no one should go looking for it.

You can walk along a hiking trail up to the drop of the falls and enjoy the waterfall from different angles and perspectives. This place is a remarkable sight and simply a must-see while in Iceland!

The capital of central South Iceland is Vík in the Mýrdalur valley. It sits right between the volcano Katla and Reynisfjara black sand beach. Surrounded by other stunning locations such as the unbelievable Yoda Cave and Dyrhólaey cape. It is the last town you will see for an hour. So if you are planning on going further east, make sure to fuel up here.

  • Related: Best towns & cities to visit in Iceland .

Vík í Mýrdal village, South Iceland

The new Lava Show in Vík is getting excellent reviews. The food at the local restaurants is exquisite and the walk down to the black sands is a must. A town of great views and culture!

8. Reynisfjara black sand beach

Reynisfjara black sand beach is a place of mystery, great natural beauty, strength, and splendid views. Taking a deep breath while standing on the black volcanic sand is a feeling you will cherish for a lifetime.

Black sand beach on Iceland's south coast

Make sure to explore the hidden gems inside the basalt caves and stay at a good distance from the waves. They are known to sweep people quickly. Stay well ashore to stay safe and in the best spots to enjoy the vista!

9. Friðheimar organic tomato farm

Friðheimar is located in the Flúðir area, known as one of the most active geothermal areas in Iceland. The locals know how to harness this earthly strength and grow vegetables and bathe in hot springs all year round. Friðheimar’s main focus is tomatoes but they have also been testing the waters with cucumbers and herbs.

The Friðheimar farm has the most charming restaurant located inside one of their greenhouses. A place where you can enjoy all their green goods and the different ways tomatoes can be served. You will be surprised! Truly a unique experience.

10. Blue Lagoon

If you have seen a photo from Iceland chances are it has been of the Blue Lagoon . Its combination of unbelievably blue natural healing waters and the surrounding jet black lava is only found in Iceland. So, people travel from all over the world to see it.

The lagoon sits on the Reykjanes peninsula, which takes its name from the geothermal area it sits. Reykur means smoke so it is quite literally called the ‘Smokey Peninsula’.

People relaxing at Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa

The Blue Lagoon has an in-water bar and a place where you can get in water-massages and spa treatments. They also have a world-class restaurant and a special facial mask bar. You will have plenty to do and indulge in at the Blue Lagoon!

Want to explore all these locations?

One of the most common questions we get is where travelers can go and what they can see on day trips from Reykjavík. Staying at the same nice hotel in the city can make for a lot less hassle. It can also create room for different culinary and night-time experiences, as Reykjavík is known as a lively and colorful city.

Reykjavík City Hall on a calm day

On a multi-day trip from Iceland Tours, you’ll stay at the same hotel in Reykjavík for the length of your trip. Each day you’ll join a new and exciting excursion into the countryside.

Check out these multi-day trips by bus today.

  • Reykjavík ,
  • Travel advice

About the author

Ragnheiður is a nature lover first and foremost, having studied anthropology and media at university. She also loves sharing her passion about her home country, Iceland, with everyone she meets. You’ll often find her traveling the Icelandic countryside, especially the Westfjords and south coast, although her hometown is Reykjavík. Her interests include Icelandic food and drink, plants and wildlife, and cultural traditions.

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Best Museums in Reykjavík

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Iceland in Summer vs Winter

Which season is best to visit? Get the lowdown.

Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

Find out where to spot the stunning aurora borealis.

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25 Best Places to Visit in Iceland [2023]

best places to visit in iceland reddit

Many travelers escape to Iceland looking to experience a breathtaking natural beauty that doesn’t exist anywhere else on the planet. With some of the most stunning landscapes in the entire world, Iceland is considered an outdoor enthusiast’s wonderland.

Home to dozens of glacier waterfalls, soothing geothermal pools, and molten volcanoes, Iceland is a wonderful country filled with dramatic landscapes. Much of the country remains untouched and unaffected by tourism, so you might be wondering if there are enough activities to keep you occupied and entertained. But don’t worry, because this majestic slice of unspoiled paradise is brimming with places to explore!

We’re here to help you figure out the best national parks, glaciers, and cities to visit during your journey to Iceland. You’re going to have an unforgettable time exploring the best destinations this arctic country has to offer!

Staying Safe in Iceland

Violent crimes and even petty theft towards Icelandic citizens and visitors are almost non-existent. Considered one of the safest countries in the world, Iceland is a country where you can feel safe wandering alone or at night. Of course, it’s always in your best interested to keep an eye on your personal belongings and to keep your valuables stored in a safe place.

While traveling to the rural parts of the country, keep in mind that accidents in nature can happen. Pay attention to road and hiking signs, and don’t venture off the path especially when exploring glaciers, geysers, or mountains. The medical response time in remote locations of Iceland is much slower, and the nearest medical facility may be far away.

But while Iceland is very safe as a whole, no matter where you travel you absolutely NEED to have travel insurance.

Travel insurance  is the best way to keep you and your belongings safe and secure while you are traveling abroad. We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and can say without a doubt that World Nomads is the absolute best (and most affordable!). Fill out the form below to get a quote :)

#1 – Snæfellsjökull National Park

One of the nicer places in iceland to sightsee.

Snæfellsjökull National Park

  • 170 square kilometers wide
  • A popular spot to see Northern Lights

While there is no shortage of beautiful landscapes in Iceland, Snæfellsjökull National Park is considered one of the most stunning. Besides being the only national park that jets out from the ocean, Snæfellsjökull National Park is also home to the famous Snæfellsjökull glacier!

But don’t let the name fool you, the national park is also surrounded by lava tubes and rocky fields, perfect for hiking and climbing. Although you’ll find plenty of snow during winter, come during summer to see the park covered in lush green grass and colorful flowers.

Best Attractions

  • Snæfellsjökull Glacier stands 1,446-meters high into the air. Although this volcanic mountain hasn’t erupted in almost 2,000 years, it still made its impact on the surrounding area. It’s considered one of the most prominent landmarks in all of Iceland.
  • Sönghellir is a small cave whose name translates to “singing cave”. Stand inside and sing a little tune to have your voice echo through the hallow tunnels in the cave. You can also see 300-yeard old stone carvings on the inside walls.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Snæfellsjökull National Park

  • The BEST Hotel in Snæfellsjökull National Park → West Park Guesthouse

#2 – The Blue Lagoon

Cool place to see in iceland with friends.

The Blue Lagoon

  • 20-kilometer wide lagoon
  • Average water temperatures of 37–39 °C 

If you need a break from all the outdoor activity head to the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s top attractions. The Blue Lagoon’s milky blue water is the perfect setting for a bit of relaxation and spa therapy!

Spend a few hours swimming through the geothermal pools, or give yourself a silica mud mask to help make your skin soft and silky. Whether you’re escaping the harsh Iceland winter, or just basking in the sunshine, you’ll have a wonderful time bathing at the Blue Lagoon.

  • The Blue Lagoon swim up bar allows bathers to enjoy a nice cold beverage. Drinking an ice cold beer is the perfect way to cool down from the thermal pools. The first drink is usually on the house too!
  • The Lava Restaurant overlooks the glistening, blue pools and serves up amazing gourmet dishes. The restaurant strives itself on local produce, so you know you’ll be getting only the best ingredients.
  • Massages are available if you want to take your relaxation to the next level. Try the water massage, a full body oil massage that’s done while you soak in the pool.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in The Blue Lagoon

  • The BEST Hotel in The Blue Lagoon → The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland

Pssst!  Here’s a seriously useful guide for anyone who’s planning on planning a budget road trip in Iceland

#3 – Kirkjufell  

Kirkjufell  

  • Situated on Snæfellsnes peninsula
  • Hiking and photography

Located on Iceland’s northern coast stands Kirkjufell, a 463-meter tall mountain that’s covered in green grass and shrubs. It’s considered one of the most photographed landmarks in the entire country, and it’s easy to see why!

Surrounded by waterfalls and crashing waves, Kirkjufell is a breathtaking landscape that attracts tourists and locals alike. Besides photography, you can hike around the mountain for stunning views from every angle.

  • Hiking around the trail that loops around the mountain is a popular activity. It’s fairly easy and takes only three or four hours to complete. For something a bit more adventurous, hike to the summit of Kirkjufell. The climb is very challenging, so it should be reserved for only advanced hikers or guided tours.
  • Kirkjufellsfoss are three flowing waterfalls that are almost as famous as the mountain itself! They flow from the Kirkjufell river so they are definitely too cold to swim in, but they still make for a wonderful view along with the mountain.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Kirkjufell

  • The BEST Hotel in Kirkjufell → Kirkjufell Guesthouse

Pssst! Check out this comprehensive guide for Travelling around Iceland with Kids

#4 – Dynjandi

One of the more unique places to visit in iceland.

Dynjandi

  • 7 different waterfalls of varying sizes
  • Known as “the Jewel of the Westfjords”

Cascading down over 100-meters, the Dynjandi waterfalls are one of the most unique sites in Iceland. Unlike most waterfalls, Dynjandi spans 60-meters wide, so the water looks like a thin, white sheet!

Although the name Dynjandi represents just the first tier of the waterfall, you’ll also find plenty of other smaller streams that flow through the rocks and crevices of the hill. Legend has it that each waterfall represents a supernatural being and spirit, which only adds to the majestic feeling of it all!

  • Hiking to the Dynjandi viewpoint is just a short 15-minute walk, but one of the best angles for viewing the waterfalls. The small, rocky path winds through the other waterfalls as well, but nothing is as impressive as seeing the flowing Dynjandi!
  • Hæstahjallafoss is the second largest, but equally as stunning waterfall in front of Dynjandi. Its flow is thunderous and hypnotic as the powerful streams flow into the small rivers.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Dynjandix

  • The BEST Hotel in Dynjandi → Seljavellir Guesthouse

Reykjavik has some INCREDIBLE sights! Take one of the top tours in Reykjavik to really discover this city!

#5 – Akureyri

Akureyri

  • Dozens of museums to visit
  • Summer music and outdoor festivals

Originally a Norse Viking settlement, the town of Akureyri has played an important role in Icelandic history. Due to its harbor and proximity to the north, Akureyri became a bustling port-town known for agriculture and fishing.

Besides exploring this historic side of the city, you’ll always want to take advantage of the Akureyri’s thriving cultural scene. Akureyri is home to many gourmet restaurants, cozy cafes, and several live music and entertainment venues.

  • Akureyri Botanical Gardens is a wonderful park that grows over 7,000 different plant and flower species. Besides strolling through the gardens, you can also visit the botanical research center. The park is open throughout the day and is completely free to visit!
  • Akureyri Art Museum is located in a historic Bauhaus building that was once used as a dairy factory! Photographs, figures, and paintings from some of the most popular Icelandic artists are hung throughout the halls.
  • Flugsafn Íslands is a museum dedicated to everything aviation! Not only will you find photographs and information about Iceland’s aviation history, but you can also walk through several defunct aircraft, such as a twin-engine Beechcraft and coast guard rescue helicopters.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Akureyri

  • The COOLEST Hostel in Akureyri → Akureyri Backpackers
  • The BEST Hotel in Akureyri → Hotel Kea by Keahotels

best places to visit in iceland reddit

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#6 – Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

A nice non-touristy place to visit in iceland.

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

  • Quiet, tranquil area of land
  • Camping and hiking paradise

Situated on the tip of the Hornstrandir region, the remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is a tranquil landscape that is rarely visited by tourists. The terrain is extremely diverse for Iceland with jagged cliffs to grassy fields.

While there aren’t too many specific landmarks to visit in the park itself, you’ll still be wandering through one of the most beautiful parts of Iceland. And the best part about the park is that you probably won’t see anyone else in your way!

  • Ferry rides to Hornstrandir from Ísafjörður or Bolungarvík is a great way to see the national park. Entering from the water, you’ll have to a chance to soak in the jaw-dropping cliffs and mountainsides from afar.
  • Camping is a good idea if you want to spend a few days exploring the park. With over 16 different campsites, you’ll have no problem finding space before you head out early the next morning to continue your hike.
  • 3-day hike of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve takes you through 4 different villages. You’ll be walking between 10-14-kilometers each day, so make sure you bring your hiking boots and rain jackets!

Iceland is alive! And you’ll find these party hostels have some of the best events around!

#7 – Rauðisandur Beach

Rauðisandur Beach

  • Color beach with red and orange sand
  • Quiet and peaceful getaway

You might have seen golden and black sand beaches, but have you ever seen a red sand beach? On Rauðisandur Beach, you can see shades of red and orange sand that stretches 10-kilometers down the West Fjords.

The color is starkly contrasted to the bright, turquoise pools of the ocean that laps around the beach. Whether you’re coming to photograph the landscape, or just wanting to admire the peaceful coast, you’ll be happy you spend a few hours visiting Rauðisandur Beach.

  • The black church is a small religious worship spot situated right next to the beach. This unique building is painted a dark black, which is quite unique for a church. It also makes for a stunning viewpoint of the neighboring ocean and beach.
  • Kirkjuhvammur Cafe is the only spot near the beach where you can grab a quick cup of coffee or stop for a lunch break. It’s only open a few weeks in the summer, but you can still enjoy one of the tastiest slices of pie or freshly baked waffles.
  • Low tide is the best time to see the magnificent colors of sand. If you come during a sunny day, the sun reflects off the beach and illuminates the red and orange sand.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Rauðisandur Beach

  • The BEST Hotel in Rauðisandur Beach → Hnjotur Guesthouse

#8 – Húsavík

Húsavík

  • 50-kilometers from the arctic circle
  • Charming town with several museums

Nestled on the banks of the Skjálfandi Bay is Húsavík, a charming town with just a little over 2,000 residents. History says that it was the first Icelandic town to be conquered by a Norse Viking in 870 AD.

After a cold winter, he returned home but left a few slaves who started what we know as current day Húsavík! It remains a popular tourist location for locals and visitors, who come to catch a breath of fresh air and to enjoy the harbor.

  • Húsavíkurkirkja is a small but colorful church right in the middle of Húsavík city center. Built in the early 1900s, the wooden church is known for its bright green roof and vibrant red molding.
  • The Exploration Museum is dedicated to the human exploration through the world and through outer space. From Viking exploration to the moon landing, you’ll find exhibits, installations, and galleries detailing our journey on this planet.
  • Íþróttafélagið Völsungur is Húsavík main football team that plays in the area. Although they haven’t been in the Icelandic top tier games since the 1980s, it’s still fun to watch a game!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Húsavík

  • The BEST Hotel in Húsavík → Laxhús

#9 – Thingvellir Iceland Tectonic Plates

Possibly one of the most important places to visit in iceland.

Thingvellir Iceland Tectonic Plates

  • Constantly shifting tectonic plates
  • Beautiful national park with stunning landscapes

One of Iceland’s most unique attractions is witnessing the moving tectonic plates at Thingvellir, The movement of the North American and Eurasian plates created the Icelandic landscape that we see today.

Molten volcanic, steep cliffs and babbling rivers were all formed by the tectonic plates that shifted throughout history. It’s an extraordinary experience to see the origin of Iceland, and how the plates themselves have shaped our planet.

  • Almannagjá is the rift that runs in between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. You can stand on either side of the cliff and admire both continents from one location.
  • Öxará River  runs into Iceland’s largest lake. The rushing waters of the river flow into Öxaráfoss, a thundering waterfall that cascades off the edges of the cliffs into the Drekkingarhylur Pools.
  • Althing is Iceland’s national parliament building that was founded over 1,000 years ago. It’s located in the middle of the park, not far away from the Almannagjá rift. Don’t miss exploring this part of Iceland’s history along with the tectonic plates.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Thingvellir Iceland Tectonic Plates

  • The BEST Hotel in Thingvellir Iceland Tectonic Plates → lake Thingvellir cottages

#10 – Vík í Mýrdal

Vík í Mýrdal

  • Southernmost village in Iceland
  • Two hours from Reykjavik

Vík í Mýrdal may only have a population of 200, but this quaint, seaside village is a vital part of Iceland’s tourism industry, thanks to it’s proximity to gorgeous rocky beaches.

It’s located in the most southern part of the country which means you experience warm weather (for Iceland’s standards!). While there aren’t many attractions in the village itself, you’ll definitely enjoy the sweeping views of the mountains and coastline.

  • Reynisfjara Beach is a stretch of black basalt coastline that runs past Vík í Mýrdal. Although it’s beautiful to see, harsh weather conditions can make the coast dangerous. That’s why there’s a beachside monument that honors the seamen who were swept out in the waves.
  • Reynisdrangar sea-stacks are two protruding rock formations that jet out of the ocean. Made out of basalt stone, the sea-stacks are also a part of Icelandic folklore. They are said to represent two trolls that hauled ships out to sea.
  • Vík í Mýrdal Wool Gallery is more than just a shop! It’s a production factory that produces traditional Icelandic attire. Made from Icelandic wool, you can purchase hats, scarves, and sweaters to take back as warm and cozy souvenirs.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Vík í Mýrdal

  • The BEST Hotel in Vík í Mýrdal → Black Beach Suites

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If you are traveling you should ALWAYS have emergency cash hidden on you! Security belts are great because they are affordable and can fit a ton of stuff in them (great for peace of mind!). Check out our favorite travel belt!

#11 – Lake Myvatn

A beautiful and scenic place to check out in iceland.

Lake Myvatn

  • Iceland’s 4th largest lake
  • Filled with geothermal pools and baths

Lake Myvatn is a sprawling, natural landscape that boasts a variety of activities for all types of travelers. Created by a volcano that erupted over 2,000 years ago, Lake Myvatn has volcanic pillars and craters mixed with marshy wetlands.

The lake is also part of the Diamond Circle, the popular tourist loop that winds through Northern Iceland. Don’t worry if you’re not with a group, you can still venture through the lake on your own!

  • Myvatn Nature Baths are several geothermal pools located around the lake. Relax in the steaming, bubbling baths that are known to contain minerals with healing properties. A little less touristy than the Blue Lagoon, the Mývatn Nature Baths is one of the best places for a little R&R.
  • Hverfjall is one of the largest preserved craters in the entire world! At 140-meters deep and 1-kilometer wide, this crater can be hiked or explored using one of the two trails that encircle its perimeter.
  • Leirhnjukur sits right outside the lake and is another popular geothermal pool worth visiting. However, you shouldn’t get too close, as they are still bubbling solidified lava fields!

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Lake Myvatn

  • The BEST Hotel in Lake Myvatn → Hótel Laxá

Not sure what to bring? Have a look at our (must read) packing list for Iceland .

#12 – Skaftafell Park

Skaftafell Park

  • Varying landscapes
  • Ice climbing, hiking, and cycling

Tucked away from the buzzing cities and villages of Iceland sits Skaftafell Park. Located in a remote region of the country’s southern coast, Skaftafell Park is a 4,800 square kilometer glacier that’s covered in thick sheets of ice and crystal, blue cliffs.

Although you’re on a glacier, you’ll still see plenty of tree growth in the wooded forests that surround the park. You’re in the middle of an outdoor playground, where you can hike and climb to your heart’s desire.

  • Svartifoss Waterfall is beautiful, but the rock formations next to the waterfall make this one of the most amazing sites in the country. The 20-meter tall waterfall is surrounded by black, hexagonal columns that make sharp, geometric patterns!
  • Sjónarnípa boasts one of the best viewpoints over the entire Skaftafell glacier. Once you reach the Svartifoss Waterfall, you can hike another 3 hours until you reach this dramatic observation point.
  • Park Ranger tours are conducted throughout the year. If you’re looking for an educational walk through some of the park’s biggest highlights, then take one of the ranger interpretive walks.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Skaftafell Park

  • The BEST Hotel in Skaftafell Park → Hotel Skaftafell

#13 – Miðborg, Reykjavik

A great place to visit in iceland if you are traveling solo.

Miðborg, Reykjavik

  • Reykjavik’s city center
  • A cultural hub with museums, restaurants, and nightlife

The neighborhood of Miðborg is the cultural and bustling epicenter of Reykjavik. It’s compact and walkable, which means you can easily explore all the attractions, restaurants, and cafes by foot. Most tourists will spend a large chunk of time in Miðborg when visiting Reykjavik.

Besides being home to the city’s top attractions, visitors can also wander the streets admiring the colorful buildings and Icelandic architecture. Don’t miss the buzzing nightlife scene when nightclubs and bars open their doors to fun-loving (and thirsty) young locals! Also, if you are staying in Reykjavik, you should check out our post about the best hostels in Reykjavik.

  • Church of Hallgrímur is probably the most iconic attraction in all of Reykjavik. Standing 75-meters high, this Lutheran church looms over the entire city center below it. Take a ride to the observation deck on top, where you can see panoramic views over the city.
  • Reykjavík Museum of Photography is home to a whopping 5 million photographs taken by artists all over the world. Every type of photography style and genre over the last 150 years is featured in this museum.
  • Volcano House is a geological museum where you can learn about the varying volcanic mountains and landscapes of Iceland.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Miðborg, Reykjavik

  • The BEST Hotel in Miðborg, Reykjavik → Rey Apartments

#14 – Laugardalur, Reykjavik

Awesome place to visit in iceland with kids.

Laugardalur, Reykjavik

  • Reykjavik’s best recreational facilities
  • Nicknamed “pool valley”

Although it’s not as populated as the main neighborhood of Miðborg, Laugardalur still manages to attract visitors who want a quieter neighborhood that’s still close to the city center.  Instead of shops and restaurants, Laugardalur has plenty of peaceful parks, pools, and recreational facilities.

Catering more to young families, this neighborhood is perfect if you are traveling with kids or pets. If you are making the trip there, you should definitely check out our article about some of the coolest day trips from Reykjavik.

  • Laugardalslaug is a family fun pool and water playground for kids and playful adults! Besides pool floaties, water slides, and diving boards, Laugardalslaug also has several geothermal pools and hot tubs.
  • Grasagardur Botanical Garden is a city-run park with thousands of arctic plants native to Iceland. Besides the walking paths and gardens, you can also admire the water fountains and ponds scattered throughout the park.
  • Laugardalsvöllur is Reykjavik’s main sports area and home to the Icelandic National Football Team! Seating just under 10,000 spectators, Laugardalsvöllur provides an intimate, yet exciting view of football matches or live concerts.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Laugardalur, Reykjavik

  • The BEST Hotel in Laugardalur, Reykjavik → CenterHotel Midgardur

#15 – Langjokull Glacier

Langjokull Glacier

  • Ice climbing, hiking, and snowmobiling
  • Several glowing, crystal ice caves to explore

Iceland is famous for icy, white glaciers, and Langjokull Glacier is no exception. Nicknamed “the Long Glacier”, Langjokull Glacier 953 square kilometers and runs 580-meters thick. Situated just under the glacier are two volcanic systems.

They’re not considered too active and have only erupted 32 times in the last 10,000 years. Although it’s worthwhile just to visit to look at the scenery, there are plenty of outdoor activities to participate in if you’re feeling more spontaneous!

  • Skidoo and snowmobiling can be a fun way to explore the glacier. Hop on one of these motorized vehicles and zoom through the thick sheets of ice and snow at heart racing speeds!
  • Ice Caves can be found in multiple spots around the glacier. Even though some of them are manmade, it’s still an amazing spectacle to witness. The neon blue walls and frozen waterfalls are unlike anything you’ve seen before!
  • Hraunfossar are several waterfalls that flow through the glaciers of Langjokull. While it’s one of the many falls in the area, Hraunfossar runs almost 900-meters from one of the existing lava fields.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Langjokull Glacier

  • The BEST Hotel in Langjokull Glacier → Gíslaskáli Kjölur Hostel – Sleeping Bag Accommodation

#16 – Seyðisfjörður

A very cool place in iceland to go for a day.

Seyðisfjörður

  • An artistic town with museums and sculptures
  • Colorful buildings and setting

Experience Iceland’s quirky, creative side by traveling to the town of Seyðisfjörður! Besides being nestled between flowing waterfalls and snow-capped hills, the town has one of the most vibrant art scenes in the whole country.

During the summer, Seyðisfjörður transforms into a village of festivals and museums attracting people from all over the world. You also can’t miss the eclectic array of buildings and homes, each painted a different vivid shade of the rainbow.

  • Rainbow Street is the perfect backdrop for your Instagram or Facebook profile! Bricks are painted in bright reds, deep blues, and glowing greens and run through the middle of town. It leads towards the iconic Blue Church of Seyðisfjörður.
  • The Blue Church may only be 100 years old, but it’s a popular landmark for both visitors and Icelandic locals. It’s a pastel blue but sometimes is used as a screen for artistic projections during events and festivals.
  • Tvísöngur are bizarre cement sculptures by the famous German artist, Lukas Kühne. These round domes are dedicated to traditional Icelandic music since they were built to represent musical harmony.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Seyðisfjörður

  • The COOLEST Hostel in Seyðisfjörður → Hafaldan HI Hostel – Old Hospital
  • The BEST Hotel in Seyðisfjörður → Hotel Snæfell

#17 – Siglufjörður

Siglufjörður

  • Fishing heritage and culture
  • Witness the midnight sun in summer

The fishing town of Siglufjörður may be quiet and rural, but it’s the perfect jumping off point for exploring Iceland’s snow and winter activities. Located in northern Iceland, Siglufjörður is famous for herring fishing, thanks to its large and well-positioned harbor.

Besides focusing on fish, Siglufjörður is also home to some of Iceland’s folk music scene! The town hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year completely dedicated to Icelandic folk music.

  • Hedinsfjörður is the steep fjord where Siglufjörður is settled. Besides wandering through the cliffs and valleys, you can also find some of the best spots for trout and herring fishing.
  • Herring Era Museum is Iceland’s largest fishing museum where you can learn about how the herring industry has impacted the town. Explore one of the recreated fishing villages or herring factories and see how this small fish was so vital to the community.
  • Midnight Sun can be seen in Siglufjörður for a month from June to July. Watch as the sun shines brightly throughout the night, making it one of the best times to visit the town.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Siglufjörður

  • The BEST Hotel in Siglufjörður → Siglo Hotel

#18 – Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

  • Iceland’s deepest lake at 250-meters deep
  • Nicknamed “Diamond Beach”

Jökulsárlón Glacier is not just another icy glacier, it’s a deep lagoon filled with icebergs. It’s just a 5-hour drive from Reykjavik, which means it’s the perfect day or weekend trip to see some of the most dramatic landscapes of the Arctic.

Unfortunately, the glacier is slowly melting, and the gigantic ice blocks are constantly tumbling and cracking with each passing day.

  • Boat tours will take you around the towering icebergs of the lagoon. Because of the freezing temperatures, most tours only last an hour. However, that’s more than enough time to snap some breathtaking photos!
  • Ice caving through the crystal tunnels and glowing walls is a great way to get up close and personal with the glacier. Don your headlamp and hard hat to explore the depths of these frozen natural wonders.
  • Quadrant #3 is the main section of the glacier that’s most often photographed. You’ll see the tranquil, floating ice clusters and the stunning mountains in the background. If you’re hoping to see a quieter side of the glacier, head to Quadrant #4.

#19 – Kópavogur

A great place in iceland if you love to shop.

Kópavogur

  • Quiet, tourist-free city not far from Reykjavik
  • Cheap and affordable shopping

Located a short bus ride (or walk) south of Reykjavik is Kópavogur, Iceland’s second largest town. Since it’s sometimes considered the outsides of Reykjavik, you’ll find fewer tourists and more families who’ve moved to the town to escape the hustle of the city center.

The prices are cheaper, but there are still plenty of activities and facilities to keep you entertained while visiting Iceland.

  • Turninn is the country’s largest building standing 77-meters high. It’s mostly used as office space so it might not be too exciting to visit. However, it’s worth looking just to see a modern, cosmopolitan building standing tall over the mostly flat piece of land!
  • Smáralind is the largest shopping mall in Iceland with over 100 different retail stores, boutiques, and restaurants. You’ll find most of your big name brands in the mall, as well as international restaurants and food chains.
  • Kópavogs Swimming Pool  is an outdoor pool that’s fun for the whole family! Besides splashing around in the main Olympic size pool, you can also unwind at one of the several hot tubs.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Kópavogur

  • The BEST Hotel in Kópavogur → Blue Mountain Apartments

#20 –  Hafnarfjörður

Hafnarfjörður

  • Iceland’s 3rd largest city
  • Several festivals and rich culture

The port town of Hafnarfjörður may be smaller than it’s older Reykjavik brother, but it still manages to be a cultural city. It’s most notably known to host the annual Viking festival, where Scandinavians from all over the world come to experience reconstructed Viking towns and to purchase traditional outfits, weapons, and handicrafts.

Besides the Viking festival,   Hafnarfjörður  also hosts the Bright Days festival, dedicated to the captains and sailors of the country.

  • Hafnarfjörður Museum is a free exhibition where you can learn more about the town’s history dating back several hundred years. The second exhibit on-site is also an antique toy museum!
  • The Hafnarborg Institute of Culture and Fine Arts is another art gallery and museum with rotating exhibitions every few months. Whether you’re here to learn about Icelandic artists, or to see modern and contemporary international art, you’ll have a fascinating time at The Hafnarborg Institute of Culture and Fine Arts.
  • The Port of Hafnarfjordur is the perfect place for a quiet walk or view of the town’s harbor. Grab a cup of coffee and walk along the pier admiring the sale boats and fishing village buildings that line the coast.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Hafnarfjörður

  • The COOLEST Hostel in Hafnarfjörður → Vibrant Iceland Hostel
  • The BEST Hotel in Hafnarfjörður → Hotel Viking

#21 – Silfra

Certainly one of the most exotic place to see in iceland.

Silfra

  • Iceland’s only dive site
  • Swim between two continents!

The waters that run through the Silfra rifts are some of the most potable and translucent waters in all of Iceland and because of the glacier runoff, the waters have clear visibility as far as the eye can see! Silfra is considered one of the largest and deepest fissures surrounding the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Scuba Diving through Sifra is a unique activity that can’t be done anywhere else in Iceland! Experienced divers have the rare opportunity to dive between two different continental plates while having underwater visibility between 80 and 120-meters.

  • Silfra Hall is an intricate cave system that divers first encounter on their journey through the rift. Diving down 45-meters, swimmers have to maneuver their way around giant rocks before reaching the rest of the diving spots.
  • Silfra Cathedral is the widest and deepest part of Silfra. It’s not a traditional cathedral per se, but instead, a deep valley surrounded by lava rock formations. Don’t forget to turn left at the end of the cathedral in order to continue your tour!
  • Silfra Lagoon has the highest visibility underwater, where divers can see 120-meters in front of them.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Silfra

  • The BEST Hotel in Silfra → lake Thingvellir cottages

#22 – Haukadalur Valley

Haukadalur Valley

  • First known instance of a geyser
  • Attracts 2 million visitors a year

One of the main attractions on the Gold Circle route, Haukadalur Valley is the best spot to catch erupting geysers! Not only is Haukadalur Valley home to the first geyser, but it’s also home to some of the most active ones.

And since it’s just over an hours drive from Reykjavik, it’s an easy day trip to see some of Iceland’s most stunning landscapes.

  • Geysir is the first recorded geyser in Europe. Lending its name to all subsequent geysers that came after it, Geysir can shoot boiling hot water 70-meters straight into the sky. Although it’s been quite active in the past, it’s shootings are somewhat of a rare occurrence
  • Strokkur is currently the most powerful geyser in Haukadalur Valley. It usually erupts every 5-10 minutes and sends boiling water up to 20-meters high.
  • Gullfoss is by far Iceland’s most iconic waterfall, and it’s only a 5-minute drive from the geysers in Haukadalur Valley. This dramatic display pours water 32-meters at a thundering pace that is guaranteed to make your jaw drop.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Haukadalur Valley

  • The BEST Hotel in Haukadalur Valley → Litli Geysir Hotel

#23 – Vestmannaeyjar

Vestmannaeyjar

  • An archipelago of islands and rock formations
  • Home to a violent, active volcano

Vestmannaeyjar, otherwise known as the Westman Islands is an archipelago that’s off the beaten track for most tourists. Most life is centered around the main island of Heimaey since the other 15 or so islands have been deemed inhabitable.

In order to reach Heimaey, you can take the daily ferry service that connects it to the mainland. If you’re interested in exploring the other islands, you can always bribe a local fisherman to give you a tour!

  • Eldheimer Museum explains the tragic history of Elfell Mountain’s last eruption in 1973 over Heimaey Island. The eruption lasted an astonished few months and covered most of the town in ash and lava.
  • Edfell Crater should be explored if you want to get up close and personal to this destructive volcano. It towers 200-meters above the water, and views from the top are one in a million. However, the lava is still very hot and the radiating heat can be felt by those who tread over its terrain.
  • Stórhöfði is a small region on the southern end of Heimaey. Considered second windiest place in the entire world (just right after Antartica), Stórhöfði boasts some of the best views of the surrounding Westman Islands.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Vestmannaeyjar

  • The BEST Hotel in Vestmannaeyjar → Glamping & Camping

#24 – Jökulsárgljúfur National Park

One of the most amazing places in iceland.

Jökulsárgljúfur National Park

  • Canyons and waterfalls to see
  • Perfect hiking and camping areas

Although it’s no longer classified as it’s own national park, Jökulsárgljúfur National Park still has some of the most amazing rock formations in the country.

Connected to the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River, the park is known for its steep canyons and glacier runoff. Of course, there are also several waterfalls that flow into the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, which makes the perfect backdrop for nature photography.

  • Hljóðaklettar is a collection of arched caves located in one of the canyons. Known as “the Rock of Echoes”, you wanter inside the cave and hear your voice reverberate off the walls of the rocky walls.
  • Ásbyrgi is one of the glacier canyons that’s bent in the shape of a horseshoe. The canyon walls jet up 100-meters and were probably formed when rip-roaring floods blew through ökulsárgljúfur National Park 10,000 years ago.
  • Hiking is the main activity and the easiest way to explore the park. There are several trails depending on your skill level. You can also camp around the trails if you’re venturing through the longer, more strenuous paths.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Jökulsárgljúfur National Park

  • The BEST Hotel in Jökulsárgljúfur National Park → Guesthouse Birkifell

#25 – Videy Island

Videy Island

  • Old abandon village to explore
  • Art exhibitions and monuments

A stone’s throw away from Reykjavik is the compact island of Videy. This charming town is the perfect escape from the city and can be reached with a short ferry ride from the Reykjavik harbor. Once you step foot on Videy Island, you’ll be in the middle of rural Iceland!

  • Imagine Peace Tower is a beautiful monument created by Yoko Ono to honor John Lennon. This tall column has “Imagine Peace” written in two dozen different foreign languages, and symbolizes love, peace, and joy. If you come during October and November, you’ll see the Imagine Peace Tower glowing a neon blue.
  • Richard Serra Sculptures are nine giant basalt columns that circle around the island. Created by world renown artist, Richard Serra, the sculptures are meant to represent different viewpoints from which to view the island.
  • Village ruins from the islands first settlers still remain on Videy Island. The village was abandoned over 100 years ago, and you can still visit the old buildings and homes that still exist.

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Videy Island

  • The BEST Hotel in Videy Island → Lækur Hostel

Now you have a wonderful overview of how awesome Iceland is to explore! Where else can you spend the morning hiking through volcanos, walk over two continents in the afternoon, and soak in a thermal bath at night?

Reykjavik is the perfect hopping off point for the rest of the country. After spending a few days soaking in the atmosphere of this cool city, you’ll be ready to jump straight into the untouched natural beauty of the Icelandic surroundings.

Grab your passport and book your flight to Iceland soon! You’ll want to see everything this beautiful country has to offer before it becomes a bustling tourist destination. When you’re walking through the quiet valleys with the wind blowing through your hair, you’ll feel as if Iceland was made just for you.

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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bruarfoss is one of the best things to do in iceland

40 Best Things To Do In Iceland: Ultimate Iceland Bucket List

March 14, 2023 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Are you looking for the best things to do in Iceland ? This guide has some of the most amazing places to visit in Iceland.

When people think of the best activities in Iceland, they often think of hot springs, glaciers, and waterfalls. And while Iceland does have all of those amazing natural wonders, it has even more to offer!

This magical country also has stark black sand beaches, winding canyons, adorable churches, and gravity-defying rock formations. Basically, the list of interesting places in Iceland can go on and on!

Whether this is your first trip to Iceland or you have been many times in the past, we bet you will find something new and exciting to see in this amazing country!

We have broken this list down by region so you can easily use it to write your own Iceland itinerary.

No matter when you are plan n ing to go to Iceland , there will be something epic to see!

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and sharing your photos and asking for tips and tricks.

A woman in yellow on black sand beach in front of vestrahorn mountain, one of the best things to do in Iceland.

Best Things To Do In South Iceland

Soak in the warmth of the blue lagoon.

If you are looking for what to do in Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is undeniably one of the most popular attractions in the Land of Fire and Ice!

There are a ton of hot springs in Iceland and the Blue Lagoon, found just outside of Reykjavik, is one of the most notable because of its iconic, milky blue color.

This color comes from a mix of algae, silica, and minerals. The minerals are great for your skin and the constant 102-degree Fahrenheit water will relax your muscles.

This is easily one of the best Reykjavik hot springs , but it can be a bit pricey. Check out our tips on traveling to Iceland on a budget .

Book Here: Blue Lagoon: Entry Ticket with Drink, Towel, and Mud Mask

man standing in bright blue waters of blue lagoon

Hike To Bruarfoss Waterfall

There are so many stunning waterfalls in Iceland , and the Bruarfoss Waterfall is one of them!

While Bruarfoss Waterfall is quite small in comparison to the other Iceland waterfalls, it’s the colors that make it stand out.

With its brilliant, turquoise water, this waterfall pops with dazzling hues. These colors actually make it one of the most popular stops of the Golden Circle .

The easy hike to the waterfall is about 2.2 miles and very scenic with two other waterfalls along the way.

The short Bruarfoss waterfall with vivid blue colors.

Watch the Eruption of Strokkur

Another Golden Circle attraction is Strokkur, an epic geyser in the Haukadalur Valley.

This geyser is very active, shooting into the sky every five to ten minutes. It usually reaches heights of about 50 to 60 feet but has been known to break 100 feet.

Interestingly, this geyser is found next to Geysir. This is where the word geyser comes from, however, it is no longer active.

This is one of the best day trips from Reykjavik . If you are traveling with your family, it is also one of the best things to do in Iceland with kids.

Book Here: Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater

Strokkur geyser shooting into the air during the golden hour.

Hike Through Þakgil Valley

Þakgil, or Thakgil, Valley is filled with marvelous hikes through a greenery-laden canyon. The name means “Roof Canyon.”

Just as Iceland is filled with so many different geographical features, Þakgil Valley is as well. While you can hike through canyons, you can also venture to glaciers and trek to waterfalls.

There is also one of the best campsites in Iceland here. Make sure to check out our complete guide on camping in Iceland !

Sharp mountain peaks covered in greenery with adjacent waterfall

Feel The Spray Of The Gullfoss Waterfall

The Gullfoss Waterfall is one of the most powerful waterfalls in the country, making it one of the most fun things to do in Iceland. Its name means “Golden Falls.”

It’s so powerful you can feel the waterfall mist fleck your face. As a matter of fact, the mist of this 105-foot waterfall often creates a colorful rainbow during summer in Iceland , making a picture-perfect image.

If you want to see a waterfall that does not require a hike, Gullfoss is for you. It is only a short walk to the main viewpoint.

Book Here: Reykjavik: The Golden Circle Day Tour

Top of Gullfoss waterfall flanked by rainbows and mist.

Take A Dip In The Reykjadalur Hot Springs

Reykjadalur Hot Springs is one of the coolest hot springs in Iceland !

Typically, when people think of a hot spring, they think of a warm, natural pool. Reykjadalur Hot Springs is a little different, in that it is a river rather than a pool.

To reach Reykjadalur Hot Springs, you will have to hike for about an hour and the trail is steep. The hike boasts a beauty of its own, including untouched waterfalls and grazing sheep.

Keep in mind that there are no changing rooms here, only partitions that provide a little privacy.

Even so , this is one of the cool things to do in Iceland for a great memory!

Book Here: Private Reykjadalur Hike & Hot River Geothermal Tour

A man sitting in river hot spring during golden hour.

Peek Behind The Magic Of The Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Typically, you can view waterfalls from in front or above. The Seljalandsfoss Waterfall provides an alternate viewing experience as you can venture behind this cascading 200-foot waterfall!

While you can visit the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall at any time of the year, do know that the path behind the waterfall may close temporarily in the winter for your safety.

The waterfall is only a short walk from the parking lot.

Book Here: From Reykjavik: South of Iceland Full-Day Trip

woman in blue skirt near cascading waterfall at sunset

And Then Find The Gljufrabui Waterfall

While everyone goes to see the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, most have no idea that the Gljufrabui Waterfall is not far away!

To reach the Gljufrabui Waterfall, head right from Seljalandsfoss and continue until you see a sign for the Gljufrabui Waterfall. You’ll see a cavern with a river, and you’ll have to hop through the river on the rocks (preferably in waterproof boots).

Then, when you finally reach the cavern, you’ll find the Gljufrabui Waterfall. When you look up, you’ll be standing at the base of a 130-foot waterfall and a natural skylight.

It truly feels like an otherworldly place and should be on any Iceland itinerary!

A person in red raincoat standing at base of Gljufrabui waterfall, one of the best things to do in Iceland.

Peek At The Skogafoss Waterfall From Above

Many of the best things to do in Iceland are hopping from one waterfall to another. Why not add the Skogafoss Waterfall to your list?

This 200-foot waterfall can be viewed from both the base and from the top.

Both views are wonderful, but, if you’re adventurous enough to climb the 500 steps to the top, you can continue your adventure with an extended hike along the Skoga River to hunt for a few more breathtaking Icelandic waterfalls.

Book Here: South Coast Classic: Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik

Couple kissing in front of Skogafoss waterfall in Iceland.

Explore The Solheimasandur Plane Wreck

Situated on the Solheimasandur black sand beach, the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck looks like it was swiped from a dystopian Hollywood movie set.

In 1973, this DC-3 US navy plane crash-landed on the beach. Mercifully, everyone onboard survived, but the wreckage has remained for nearly fifty years!

It is a moderate 4.6-mile hike to the plane. It is a must-see in Iceland!

Book Here: From Reykjavik: South Coast, Plane Wreck, & Beach ATV Tour

Sunset over the iconic Solheimasandur plane wreck on a black sand beach.

Enjoy The Natural Set-Up Of The Hrunalaug Hot Springs

Hrunalaug Hot Springs is one of the small gems of Iceland. There are three different pools of warm water (all of different temperatures), so you can find the one you like best.

This wonderful hot spring can only hold about ten people before it starts feeling crowded, so plan accordingly!

If you do choose to visit Hrunalaug Hot Spring, please be respectful! Many recent visitors have not treated the hot spring well, causing the owner to consider closing it down.

Please do your part to keep this wonderful Iceland gem preserved and open.

woman sitting in Hrunalaug hot springs best things to do in Iceland

Stare In Awe At Haifoss Waterfall

At over 400 feet, Haifoss Waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland. It’s accompanied by the just-as-tall Granni Waterfall, making this pair a force to be reckoned with.

You’d think this would be one of the busiest places to visit in Iceland, but that’s not the case. You need a 4×4 in Iceland to reach these flowing waterfalls, and it’s often closed off during the winter months.

All of that said, it’s one of the best stops on the South Coast and a must-do in Iceland.

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Landmannalaugar & Háifoss Waterfall Tour

A woman in yellow skirt in front of Haifoss waterfall, one of the best things to do in Iceland.

Catch A Stunning View of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach From Dyrholaey

While you’ll have to venture off the paved road for a little bit, Dyrholaey is definitely worth a stop, especially if you’re tackling Iceland’s Ring Road .

In addition to a natural stone arch, Dyrholaey also presents unparalleled views of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.

This is one of the best free things to do in Iceland if you love views!

A woman in yellow overlooking black sand beach from viewpoint.

Visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Then, after you’ve seen Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach from above, head down to the beach itself to see the stark black sand close up.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is one of the best black sand beaches in Iceland , due to its stark color, towering basalt columns, and roaring waves.

Make sure not to get close to the water and keep your eyes on the waves. The sneaker waves are dangerous and are known to take lives.

This beach is one of the best things to do in Vik !

Book Here: Iceland: Full-Day South Coast, Black Beach & Waterfalls Tour

A woman in a yellow skirt sitting on a basalt column overlooking Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.

Discover the Northern Lights

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is one of the best experiences you can have! This natural phenomenon is a sight to behold and is an Iceland bucket list activity.

The dancing lights can be spotted all over the country from September through March. There’s even the chance to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik if you are not able to venture far.

For the Northern Lights to be visible, the conditions have to be right. The sky needs to be dark and clear.

For the best chance to see the lights, consider booking a Northern Lights tour with experts who know where and when to look.

Check out our guide on photographing the Northern Lights too so you can capture some gorgeous photos while enjoying one of the top things to do in Iceland at night!

Book Here: Iceland: Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik

The vivid green Northern Lights dancing over a glacial lake in Iceland.

Take A Game of Thrones Tour

Most Game of Thrones fans know that the most of otherworldly landscapes of the show are actually in Iceland.

While the filming locations for Game of Thrones are all around the country, most of them are along Iceland’s South Coast. So why not take a Game of Thrones tour during your time in Iceland?

You will see some of the most impressive landmarks in Iceland!

A woman in red at the base of a powerful waterfall in Iceland

Best Things To Do In Southeast Iceland

Take in the views of fjadrargljufur canyon.

Between the astounding depth and brilliant greenery, the beauty of Fjadrargljufur Canyon lives up to the rest of Iceland’s attractions.

It is easily one of the best canyons in Iceland !

And in the winter, when snowflakes dust the canyon, it transforms it into a completely different landscape of wonder.

Recently, Fjadrargljufur Canyon has gained a lot of popularity. While lots of visitors can be great, many visitors have chosen to wander off the designated paths, consequently destroying some of the canyon’s beauty.

If you do choose to visit, please be respectful of the canyon and its rules! Moss, especially, should not be touched or stepped on. This is one of our top Iceland travel tips .

river flowing through greenery-laden canyon best things to do in Iceland

Get Your Fill Of Waterfalls In Mulagljufur Canyon

Mulagljufur Canyon rivals the depth and greenery of Fjadrargljufur Canyon while also boasting a couple of waterfalls.

Over the course of the 1.5-mile hike, you’ll meander through muddy pathways and cross over rivers before reaching the 164-foot Mulafoss and 400-foot Hangandifoss.

Because Mulagljufur Canyon is rather well-hidden, there’s a good chance you’ll have this Iceland hidden gem all to yourself.

woman standing on top of green canyon with waterfall and river

Gape At the Towering Basalt Columns Surrounding The Svartifoss Waterfall

While the 65-foot Svartifoss Waterfall isn’t the tallest of Iceland’s waterfalls, it is still special enough to make it onto this list of the best things to do in Iceland.

What it lacks in height, it makes up for in towering basalt columns. These black, octagonal columns surround the flow of water until it reaches its natural pool at the base.

If you do choose to visit the Svartifoss Waterfall in Skaftafell Nature Preserve, be sure to pay attention to the signs and stick to the designated areas.

The natural landscape around this waterfall is particularly fragile, so please do your part to try to preserve it!

River leading to Svartifoss waterfall surrounded by black, basalt columns.

Take A Glacier Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is a unique natural wonder. Once upon a time, it was a full-on glacier, but, over time, it has melted to become Iceland’s largest lake (although it does still include large chunks of the glacier).

During the summer months, the ice continues to melt, and the waters teem with wildlife. During winter in Iceland , these same waters start to refreeze.

Basically, every time you visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, it will look completely different.

The best way to immerse yourself in the wonder of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is by taking a glacier tour by boat.

Then, you’ll be able to sail through all of the hidden iceberg nooks rather than simply seeing what is visible from the shore. This is one of the best Iceland activities!

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

woman wading in Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon with a swim suit.

Adore The Glacier Chunks Gracing The Black Sand Of Diamond Beach

Arguably just as cool as a glacier tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is a visit to Diamond Beach.

Located just across the highway from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach is littered with frozen glacier chunks!

When contrasted with the obsidian color of the sand, Diamond Beach makes for a truly one-of-a-kind landscape. It will also look different each time you visit.

Book Here: Reykjavik: South Coast Waterfall Tour with Diamond Beach

Pink sunset over the ice on the back Diamond Beach.

Best Things To Do In East Iceland

Stand in the shadow of the towering vestrahorn mountain.

Situated on the Stokksnes Peninsula, Vestrahorn Mountain is one of Iceland’s most memorable mountains.

There’s really no question of why this mountain made it onto this list of the best places to go in Iceland. The sharp gray peaks topped with a sprinkle of white snow contrast with the ebony-colored sand below.

As if this striking picture was not enough, you can also capture the coolest picture with Vestrahorn’s reflection in the waves of the black sand beach.

Then, add the warm colors of a sunrise or sunset, and it’s like pure magic. It is definitely one of the best Iceland photography locations !

A woman prancing towards sharp Vestrahorn mountains during golden hour.

Skip Along The Rainbow Street To The Sky Blue Church

In the tiny town of Seydisfjordur is one of the most adorable churches in Iceland : the Seydisfjordurkirkja Church.

A rainbow pathway leads through the town’s shops to this tiny powder-blue church. It’s sure to put a smile on your face!

The drive to one of the cutest towns in Iceland is picture-perfect as well. You will cruise through the mountains before coming down into the fjord.

It is one of the best places to visit in Iceland !

woman in yellow skipping down rainbow street to blue church

Tackle Two Hikes At Once To Hengifoss And Litlanesfoss

At a staggering 420 feet, Hengifoss is the third-highest waterfall in Iceland.

Unfortunately, it takes three miles of moderately difficult hiking to see it. Fortunately, your efforts will not go unrewarded as, in addition to Hengifoss, you’ll also see the 100-foot Litlanesfoss about halfway through your journey.

In other words, you’ll get to see two waterfalls for the effort of just one!

 Aerial view of Hengifoss in a canyon with red and orange stripes.

Bask In The Otherworldly Landscape of Studlagil Canyon

We often forget the world can change and shift, creating new, beautiful landscapes. Studlagil Canyon is one of those new creations.

In 2009, humans played a small role in the creation of Studlagil Canyon when the hydroelectric plant Karahnjukavirkjun was built.

This allowed the bright blue waters of the Jokla glacial river to lower, revealing the orange and gray basalt columns.

You do not want to miss one of the best things to do in East Iceland !

Looking through the Studlagil Canyon with basalt columns and blue water.

Best Things To Do in North Iceland

Soak in the power of dettifoss waterfall.

Dettifoss is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Iceland. As a matter of fact, it’s been given the title of the most powerful waterfall in all of Europe!

As you stand alongside this rush of water, you’ll feel dwarfed by its sheer massiveness – in the best way possible, of course.

There are two different viewpoints to see Dettifoss: The East and the West. While they are both lovely, I recommend choosing just one, because they are an hour apart.

Book Here: From Akureyri: Private Dettifoss Waterfall Jeep Tour

A wide, powerful waterfall with a cloud of billowing mist.

Take A Dip In The Myvatn Nature Baths

Often dubbed the Blue Lagoon of the North, the Myvatn Nature Baths are a perfect way to escape the cold Icelandic air.

The temperatures of the different pools hover between 97 degrees Fahrenheit and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the perfect temperature for soaking.

This is one of the best things to do in Iceland for adults who want to relax.

Book Here: Mývatn: Myvatn Nature Baths Admission Ticket

A woman in light blue hot spring in Iceland.

Watch Whales Breach In Husavik

Husavik is known as the whale capital of Iceland as these marvelous creatures often like to settle here during the summer months.

I recommend taking a whale-watching tour to get a better view of the whales, but you can also spot them at certain places along the shoreline, including the Geosea Spa.

This is one of the best places in North Iceland for a soak!

Book Here: Húsavík: Whale Watching Tour with Guide

whale tail peaking up from the ocean

Take In The Beautiful Hvitserkur Rock Formation

Through the natural rise and fall of powerful waves, Iceland has become home to a myriad of fascinating rock formations, including the Hvitserkur Rock Formation.

With two arches carved through the base, many have decided the rock formation looks like an animal, although people haven’t been able to agree on which one.

Some say an elephant, some say a rhino, and some say a dragon. I guess you’ll just have to visit for yourself to decide!

The craggy Hvitserkur Rock Formation in the water.

Beam In the Beauty Of Godafoss, The Waterfall Of The Gods

Hands down, one of the best things to do in Iceland is visiting Godafoss.

The name of this stunning semi-circle of cascading water actually means “Waterfall of the Gods,” and this natural landmark certainly lives up to its name.

As if the waterfall wasn’t beautiful enough on its own, it settles into an eye-catching turquoise pool at the base. The two-mile loop trail is so worth it!

This epic waterfall is also one of the best things to do in Iceland in winter . It looks amazing surrounded by snow.

Book Here: From Akureyri: Lake Mývatn & Goðafoss Waterfall Day Trip

Woman in yellow sitting on a ledge overlooking the powerful Godafoss in Iceland.

Head Off The Beaten Path To Aldeyjarfoss

Iceland has a lot of waterfalls and basalt columns. For another chance to see them together, visit Aldeyjarfoss.

Found on the Skjalfandafljot River, this 65-foot waterfall is one of the best places to visit in the highlands of Iceland.

From the parking lot, it is only a ten-minute walk to the viewpoint.

woman in pool in front of powerful waterfall surrounded by basalt columns best things to do in Iceland

Best Things To Do In West Iceland

Veer off the ring road to the westfjords.

When most people visit Iceland, they stick to the Ring Road. Little do they know, they’re missing out on the Westfjords , which should definitely be added to everyone’s Iceland itinerary!

Hands down, the best thing to see in the Westfjords is the Dynjandi Waterfall. This waterfall flows down a set of natural lava rock steps, creating an almost lace-like quality to it.

But if you’re tired of Iceland’s waterfalls, you can also venture to the Dragnes Hot Pots, spot the puffins at the Latrabjarg Cliffs, or gape at the red sand of Raudasandur Beach.

An Atlantic puffin on a cliff next to flowers.

Test Your Balance As You Head Off On The Natural Bridge At Arnarstapi

Located on the Snaefellnes Peninsula , the little town of Arnarstapi rarely gets the recognition it deserves. The village is adorable, the fish and chips is delicious, and the people are kind.

If there’s one stop you have to make in Arnarstapi though, it’s the natural archway known as Gatklettur. If rock formations really pique your interest, take your time exploring the nearby area, because it’s filled with them!

There is a natural stone bridge nearby perfect for a cool photo-op too!

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Snæfellsnes Peninsula Full-Day Tour

A person running across greenery covered rock sea arch.

Photograph The Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellfoss Waterfall

The most photographed mountain in Iceland is Kirkjufell Mountain. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you may know it as Arrowhead Mountain.

This soaring mountain is accompanied by the wonderful Kirkjufellfoss Waterfall, both of which look gorgeous no matter the time of year.

If you’re really up for an adventure, you can hike to the top with the help of a guide, but most people just choose to take pictures from afar.

Book Here: Reykjavik: Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Kirkjufell Day Trip

A woman in yellow in front of Kirkjufell Mountain and Kirkjufellfoss Waterfall, one of the best things to do in Iceland.

Check Out The Hraunfossar Waterfall And Barnafoss Waterfall

The Hraunfossar Waterfall and Barnafoss Waterfall are another pair of lovely Icelandic waterfalls.

Hraunfossar Waterfall cascades down a rugged obsidian terrain, creating an entrancing lacy effect with many small streams. The glacial water here is a gorgeous blue you will love.

Barnafoss Waterfall cascades powerfully through a rocky gorge, spaying light blue water.

Each waterfall is found on an easy boardwalk path. This is one of the best places in West Iceland !

Book Here: Reykjavik: Silver Circ le, Canyon B aths, and Waterfalls Tour

Short waterfall with many streams surrounded by greenery and ending in turquoise pool

Tackle The Trail To The Glymur Waterfall

At a staggering 650 feet, Glymur Waterfall claims the title of Iceland’s second-tallest waterfall, making it one of the best things to do in Iceland.

But the trail to Glymur Waterfall is not easy. With sections steep enough to warrant using ropes and a few river crossings, the 4.5-mile hike to the Glymur Waterfall is not for the faint of heart.

View looking down at the split waterfall cascading into a canyon.

Watch The Waters Boil At Deildartunguhver Hot Springs

While you can enter most of Iceland’s hot springs, you can’t enter Deildartunguhver Hot Springs – but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit.

With temperatures reaching nearly 400 degrees Fahrenheit, these hot springs are a tribute to the powerful geothermal activity reverberating throughout Iceland.

A hot spring river steaming with heat.

Best Things To Do In Reykjavik

Climb the tower of the hallgrimskirkja church.

One of the most popular things to do in Reykjavik is to visit the Hallgrimskirkja Church. This iconic building towers over all of the others in the city, making quite a statement.

It is free to enter the church. There is a small fee to climb the tower, but it offers stunning views of the city, so it’s worth it.

The church has a very modern design completely different than other churches in Iceland.

Make sure to check out our full Reykjavik itinerary !

Book Here: Reykjavik: Sightseeing Walking Tour with a Viking

Aerial view of Hallgrimskirkja towering over Reykjavik at sunset.

Marvel At The Sun Voyager Sculpture

The dream-like Sun Voyager sculpture was created by the artist Joe Gunnar.

Made of stainless steel, this boat-shaped structure glistens in the sunlight and looks particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.

Purple dusk over the Sun Voyager Sculpture next to the water.

Trek Up Mount Esja

Mount Esja is often called the “city mountain,” because it is located just 20 minutes outside of Reykjavik.

Once you reach the end of this five-mile hike, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the city and beyond. It is one of the best hikes in Iceland !

City of Reykjavik with Mount Esja in background across the water.

This list just scratches the surface of the best things to do in Iceland. There are just so many amazing attractions in Iceland

We’re excited you’re considering what to see in Iceland and where to go in Iceland. Please let us know in the comments section if you have any questions or just want to share what you think are some of the top things to do in Iceland. 

Skogafoss waterfall partially frozen in the wintertime with snow surrounding it

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The Crazy Tourist

Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Iceland

15 Best Places to Visit in Iceland

Wild, windswept and caked with icecaps from south to Arctic north, Iceland is a land of steaming volcanos and enchanting fishing towns, rugged canyons and colossal fjords, bubbling hot springs and buzzing vodka bars. Here, we take a look at 15 of the top spots that every traveler to this Scandinavian island should have on the menu (along with the uber-fresh fish of course!).

Lets explore the best places to visit in Iceland :

1. The Blue Lagoon

Iceland’s Blue Lagoon

Bubbling and steaming between the rocky promontories of the Reykjanes Peninsula some 40 kilometers from the island’s capital at Reykjavik , the Blue Lagoon hails in as one of Iceland’s most visited tourist attractions. Despite its volcanic nature, the site is actually very young; formed from the leftover plugholes of a geothermal power plant in the 1970s.

Still, the location amidst the ridges around Grindavik is truly enchanting, while the waters come packed with minerals – the reason for the shimmering, whitish hue of the lagoon and the driving force behind the spot’s famed healing powers. Visitors to the lagoon can also enjoy in-water massages, guided tours of the curious geothermal area and luxury lounge facilities besides.

2. Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss Waterfall

Visitors will find the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall roaring over the escarpments and bluffs of south-western Iceland. It’s famed as one of the most dramatic cataracts in the world, and cascades over a series of stepped rocks and terraces before plunging over the 32-meter high crevice that gives the fall its distinct appearance of disappearing into the Icelandic subterrane.

The falls themselves can often be found arched over by rainbows or shrouded in plumes of mist, while by summer, the surrounding hills and ridges come dressed in a verdant covering of grass that makes a fine backdrop for hiking around the banks of the Hvita River.

3. Grundarfjordur

Grundarfjordur

The small and sleepy fishing town of Grundarfjordur makes its home on the ice-caked edge of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, where some of West Iceland’s most curious coastal formations edge their way up to the waters of the Greenland Sea.

And while hiking and cliff trekking abounds in the surrounding national park and Grundarfjordur itself is known for its earthy summer folk festivals courtesy of the local Viking Foundation, the town is unquestionably most famed as the jump off point for seeing (and photographing for most) the striking profile of Mount Kirkjufell, which lurches like a rocky shark fin amidst the waterfalls and coves of Snaefellsnes.

4. Myrdalsjokull Glacier Park

Myrdalsjokull Glacier Park

Caked in ice all year round, the soaring ridges of the mighty Katla caldera play host to Iceland’s wild and arctic Myrdalsjokull Glacier Park. This snow-packed field encompasses hundreds of square kilometers and represents the fourth-largest of its kind in the country.

It’s known for its otherworldly appearance, as verdant peaks poke their way out above the ice-carved valleys, metamorphic creations crowd above the crevasses and quick sand pools lurk on the edges of Solheimajokul – one of the most striking offshoots of the Myrdalsjokull Glacier. Guided hiking is uber-popular here, with spots like the Fimmvorduhals pass and the ridges of Eyjafjallajokull both offering daring getaways.

5. Landmannalaugar

Landmannalaugar

A deep-cut valley set in the very midst of south-western Iceland’s famous Fjallabak Nature Reserve, the Landmannalaugar is a hidden gem of a destination that comes complete with everything from bubbling volcanic hot springs to ochre-coloured mountain ridges.

Hiking trails surround the entire region, while a campsite right in the middle of the Landmannalaugar and a separate mountain hut offer outdoorsy types the base point they need for hitting the famous Laugavegur trail. The piece de resistance of the area has to be the Brennisteinsalda peak though; a medley of obsidian lava sheets and iron-coloured, sulphur-spotted ridges which is viewable from the trail.

6. Reykjavik

Reykjavik

At once sophisticated and quirky, hedonistic and happening, Reykjavik packs one hefty punch for the northernmost capital city on the planet. Its charming downtown of painted timber homes is watched over by the soaring and unforgettable needle-like spire of the Hallgrimskirkja – now a veritable icon of the Icelandic city – while oodles of hearty Scandinavian vodka bars and taverns coalesce between the streets.

Nearby, the beautiful Tjornin pool adds an aquatic edge to the town, while the Alpingi parliament building oozes 19th-century charm and the centre pulses with the likes of the National Gallery of Iceland, the Hafnarhus and the fascinating ancient ruins of the 871±2. In short, this one’s not to be missed!

7. Vatnajokull National Park

Vatnajokull National Park

Crowned by the seemingly endless ice fields of its eponymous glacier (the largest on the continent outside of the Arctic Circle), the Vatnajokull National Park makes its home over more than 13,000 square kilometers of south-east and central Iceland. The area is famed for the great variation in landscapes, rolling from the flower-packed meadows and roaring waterfalls (don’t miss the famous Dettifoss Fall!) that run through the Skaftafell lowlands (where there are also camping sites aplenty by summer) to the windswept, crevasse-cut glacial fields on the mountaintops.

The wetlands here play host to roaming reindeer, while mighty Hvannadalshnukur (the country’s highest point) stands high and the rugged interior of the Eldgja canyon showcases some truly wondrous volcanic geology – there’s loads to see!

8. Borgarnes

Borgarnes

Borgarnes may just look like a small dash of whitewashed timber in its position sandwiched between the coastal plains, the rising peaks of the Hafnarfjall massif and the waters of the Borgarfjordur a little north out of Reykjavik. But this humble fishing town on the edge of the sea actually has mythic roots, in the pages of the Egils Saga, and later the spot became the commercial trading centre for all of west Iceland.

That means travelers can expect an array of shopping opportunities and the likes of the Settlement Centre Museum, which chronicles the earliest days of Borgarnes, all alongside the more obvious draws of the surroundings: coastal hiking; whale spotting; those indelible hot springs!

9. Asbyrgi Canyon

Asbyrgi Canyon

Carving its way out of the rocky inland of north-east Iceland, the chiselled gorges and ridges of Asbyrgi rarely fail to draw a gasp. In all, the sheer-sided edges of the canyon run for more than three kilometers and come in at a whopping 100 meters in height at some points.

Hiking trails can be found piercing deep into the river-carved, glacial valley, weaving past tussock meadows, willow and birch groves and the ancient features of Ice Age cliffs. The spot is also shrouded in Norse legend; thought to have been created by the footfall of Odin’s mythic horse, Sleipnir.

10. Skalholt

Skalholt

Off-the-beaten-track and often overlooked for the southern region’s bigger pulls – the Gullfoss Waterfall and the Golden Circle – Skalholt can be found sat on the rolling fields just on the edge of the Hvita River.

Believe it or not, this small, snow-dusted centre in the wilds was actually one of the most powerful and important spots in the country from the 11th century onwards, and came to be hailed as the epicentre of Icelandic Catholicism. Today, the town is crowned by the oversized Skalholt Cathedral, which was virtually entirely rebuilt in the 1900s, complete with elegant Danish stained-glass pieces.

11. Akureyri

Akureyri

The self-proclaimed capital of North Iceland can come as a real surprise. Despite its humble 18,000 people, this fishing port and seaside gem of a city on the edges of the Eyjafjordur makes some serious waves. Its centre is packed to the brim with interesting independent cafes and teahouses, while the Hafnarstraeti shopping street offers up countless boutiques and craft stores.

Meanwhile, the twin spires of Akureyri Church mimic the snow-mantled summits that shroud the town on all sides, and the local craze for mayo-doused, chip-packed hamburger buns has now become a legend in its own right. Yes sir, Akureyri really is worth the visit!

12. The Westfjords

Iceland’s Westfjords

Jagged and jutting like fingers of rock and stone into the icy rollers of the Greenland Sea, the various tendrils of the Westfjords peninsula are surely amongst the most startling and worthy natural wonders in all of Iceland. A walker’s paradise, they come complete with spots like the Hornstrandir reserve, with its Arctic foxes and seal pods, and the Latrabjarg (Europe’s westernmost point if you don’t count the Azores).

Then there is gloriously-set Isafjordur, found clinging to a spit of sand on the edge of the ocean and boasting a history going all the way back to the 9th century! Sea kayaking, cliff walking and hitting the shimmering sands of Raudasandur are also all favourites.

13. Lake Myvatn

Lake Myvatn

Situated just east out of the so-called northern capital of Akureyri, Lake Myvatn offers up a truly otherworldly landscape that ranges from craggy craters to curious volcanic plug holes to bubbling mud pools and oodles more. It’s thought the lake popped into existence following a volcanic eruption more than two millennia ago, and today it’s much-loved by bird watchers, hikers and adventure seekers alike.

Top attractions in the area include the Namaskard mud pools, the black lava monoliths of Dimmuborgir, hike-able Vindbelgjarfjall at just over 500 meters above sea level and the sulphuric Myvatn Nature Baths (great if you don’t want the crowds of the Blue Lagoon!).

14. Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park

A symphony of volcanic ridges and continental cracks, carved canyons and the flowing cataracts of the mighty Oxara River, the Thingvellir National Park is arguably the most beautiful natural enclave in all of Iceland. Not only is it easily accessible from Reykjavik, but also comes complete with totemic sites like the Silfra fissure and the Peningagja pool, a rift lake that glimmers with coins dating back more than 100 years.

Thingvellir is also a hiker’s dream-come-true, boasting rugged cliff walks and mountain climbs, while history and culture buffs will love uncovering the remains of the country’s first Viking age parliament – established here in 930.

Hofn

Boasting a truly dramatic location on the small islets and finger-like peninsulas that linger in the Atlantic waters off the Hornafjordur, little Hofn is a prime example of a southern Icelandic fishing town.

As one of the favoured gateways to the wilds of East Iceland and the Vatnajokull National Park, the spot is a great choice for travelers eager to delve into some of the country’s top bucket-list natural sights, while a folk museum, the Ice Land Glacier Exhibition and arguably the best lobster eateries in all of Europe make lingering here for a day or two a fantastic way to get a feel for the rustic, salt-washed vibe of the seafaring locals.

15 Best Places to Visit in Iceland:

  • The Blue Lagoon
  • Gullfoss Waterfall
  • Grundarfjordur
  • Myrdalsjokull Glacier Park
  • Landmannalaugar
  • Vatnajokull National Park
  • Asbyrgi Canyon
  • The Westfjords
  • Lake Myvatn
  • Thingvellir National Park

30 of the Best Places To Visit In Iceland

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 19, 2024

Take a journey through these unique places to visit in Iceland with the Adventographer . Iceland has exploded in popularity as a tourist destination over the last few years. Nowadays the tourists outnumber residents nearly 3:1 in the peak summer months. But even with this huge influx of tourists and the endless information available about the country online most visitors miss out on some of the most unique places in Iceland .

Table of Contents

Best Places To Visit In Iceland

In this post, rather than bore you with places everyone else is talking about, we’ll explore some of the best ‘off-the-beaten-path’ and unique places to visit in Iceland. But don’t worry, we’ll check out the best places to visit that are a little more well-trodden as well. Read more at 15 Interesting Facts About Iceland

Hallgrimskirkja – Reykjavik

Located in the capital city of Reykjavik, Hallgrimskirkja church is Iceland’s tallest building. It is one of Reykjavik’s best-known landmarks, the Hallgrimskirkja church looms over the City Skyline. It’s visible from almost everywhere in town yet many tourists never bother to visit this brutalist church on the hill. But bypassing this structure is a mistake.

Built over a period of 41 years it resembles the impressive landscapes around Iceland. Not only does the bell tower provide an impressive sight over the expanse of Reykjavik but the interior is impressive on its own housing a 15m tall concert organ sporting 5275 pipes!

The Westfjords

One of the best things to do in Iceland is in one of the least visited regions. The West Fjords are often bypassed due to their remoteness and distance from other popular must-see Iceland attractions. Perhaps this helps to keep the West Fjords one of the best places to visit.

Due to the relative lack of tourists passing through the area, its attractions remain undiscovered by the masses. Here in the West Fjords, you’ll find sparse fishing villages tucked into sheltered coves, grand sweeping views, and landscapes that time (and tourists) have all but forgotten. And that’s about as good a reason as any to visit!

Rauðasandur Beach

While the black-sand-beach Reynisfjara is famous in the south, its pink-sand cousin Rauðasandur is unknown. This beautiful beach in the Westfjords is pink due to pulverized scallop shells. Stretching 10 km from the Látrabjarg bird cliff, it is the largest sea bird cliff in all of Europe. And it is a great place to spy puffins.

Dynjandi Waterfall

Every Tourist to Iceland knows Gullfoss waterfall but who among them knows the much more impressive Dynjandi? Dynjandi, hidden away in the West Fjords, is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Iceland . (without the crowds) Translated literally its name means ‘thunderous’ and it doesn’t disappoint!

This gargantuan waterfall is felt before it’s seen, and an impressive sight it is! Unlike other waterfalls around Iceland that commonly drop vertically, Dynjandi is a cascading waterfall. This lends to its 60m wide and 100+m tall beauty.

A short 15minute hike from the parking lot following the river and some smaller cascades will get you face to face with the fury of Dynjandi. Don’t forget your Camera! Dynjandi is definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Iceland and you’ll want your photo taken in front of it for scale! Read more: Mighty Not to Miss Iceland Waterfalls

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve 

While visiting the Westfjiords, the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. It encompasses 580 square km. (220 square miles). Check out: Iceland – Experience the Land of Fire and Ice

Gullfoss Waterfall

Okay, I know I said everyone knows Gullfoss, but no Iceland travel guide would be complete without mentioning the Mighty Gullfoss. Gullfoss is Iceland’s Niagara Falls and its thundering waters will terrify and delight. This waterfall plunges 32 meters (104 feet) into the Hvitá River. It is located in the Southwest of Iceland and is a popular stop on the Ring Road. It is a wonder of Iceland and truly one of the best things to do.

Iceland Phallological Museum

A weird and wonderful Icelandic museum in the Captial City is dedicated to all things phallic. You heard right… The Iceland Phallological Museum is the world’s foremost collection of phallic specimens; in fact, they have specimens belonging to all the various types of mammal found in the country!

It’s a weird, after lunch kind of stop while roaming around Reykjavik. Understandably it’s not for everyone, but if nothing else it makes for a good story to tell when you return home, and unique? Most definitely!

Strandagaldur – The Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft

The majority of Icelandic people believe in all kinds of fanciful ideas. From elves to witchcraft you’ll find a local who will swear it’s real. I can’t say I’m a big believer, but when in Rome right?

Located in the small, sleepy village of Hólmavík in Iceland’s West Fjords the macabre Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft is sure to spark your imagination or make your skin crawl.

I can’t help but think Silence of the Lambs when viewing the weirdest item in the museum, a set of trousers made from human skin. This is definitely one of the most unique places in Iceland!

  • Check out the Movie Eurovision – Rachel McAdams’s character definitely believes in the magic of elves.

Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir National Park)

Located just 47 Minutes from Reykjavik, Thingvellir National Park is easily accessible from the capital city. If you are traveling in clockwise direction on the Golden Circle Tours, it is one of the first stops! Thingvellir National park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historic significance where the Vikings claimed independence from Denmark. It houses the largest lake in Iceland Lake Þingvallavatn.

Located on the Rift Valley of Two Continents, many of the best things to do in the country are found right here.

Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir NP

Most visitors to Iceland don’t realize that the country is literally being torn in two continents. Sitting atop the mid-Atlantic ridge and spanning two different tectonic plates Iceland is growing at the rate of about 25mm per year. Nowhere is this more apparent than at the Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park.

Silfra fissure is the rift formed by these mighty tectonic forces at work. Here hundred-year-old glacial meltwater percolates through the porous lava rock feeding Thingvellir lake and lending to one of its world-renown qualities, visibility.

Snorkelers and divers from across the world flock to swim through the fissure, effectively floating in no-mans-land between the continents! With 100m+ visibility, you truly feel as if you’re flying, it’s only the 2°C water that snaps you back to reality. If you’re hunting for unique places to visit in Iceland Silfra is definitely one! Read all about Diving in Silfra – Iceland Underwater

Bridge Between The Continents

Continuing to play on Iceland’s stretching waistline, you can locate another part of the evergrowing rift south-west of Reykjavik on the Reykjanes peninsula. There’s no diving or snorkeling here, rather a bridge crossing the much more visible gap.

Known as the bridge between the continents it was built as a symbol of the connection & cooperation enjoyed between Europe and North America.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (Iceberg Lagoon)

Iceland is covered in glaciers, but most tourists pass them by with only a photo or a faint memory to their credit. On Iceland’s south coast lays a real treasure. A treasure where you can get up close and personal with not only Iceland’s glaciers but also the icebergs that they produce.

Jokulsarlon is an expansive glacier lagoon on the coast just a few hundred meters inland from the sea. Here while the seals play and tourists zip around on zodiac boat tours the icebergs nonchalantly bob along before being sucked out to see and subsequently washed up on the beaches flanking the lagoon.

Perhaps not as off the beaten track as the rest of these destinations, Jokulsarlon makes the list because it’s simply unique. It is truly one of the natural wonders of Iceland.

Diamond Beach

Speaking of Natural Wonders, the famous black sand beach nearby is not to be missed. While exploring Jokulsarlon be sure to cross the road and see the stunning black sand beach. 

It’s famous for the icebergs that wash up on shore as they make their way out of Jokulsarlon down the river to the Atlantic Ocean. One of the best things to do is to go for a walk along the beach at sunrise. That is when the icebergs really seem to be cluttering the shore. Both of these popular stops are located on the Iceland circle route.

Fjadrargljufur Canyon

Hiding away just off Iceland’s main ring road is Fjadrargljufur canyon. It waited here patiently in relative obscurity until thrust into the spotlight recently by Justin Beber and his hit Music video for “ I’ll Show You ”.

Fjadrargljufur is a stunningly craggy canyon jutting out from the rolling green hills nearby. This picturesque canyon is a favorite among photographers and Instagrammers. It’s easy to see why!

While it doesn’t have the scale of the Grand Canyon or the depth of Copper Canyon in Mexico its narrow width and sheer cliff walls make it stunning none the less.

Seljavallalaug Hot Spring / Hot Pool

Iceland’s oldest swimming pool perhaps isn’t something that would typically draw tourists. But when you see a photo of Seljavallalaug tucked into the hillside of a verdant, mountain-ringed valley and realize that you can still swim in this geothermally fed pool you too will want to drop your day’s plans and visit!

A short walk from the makeshift parking area next to a farm follows the river into an ever-narrowing valley before crossing the river in a few spots and delivering you to Seljavallalaug. The water is warm but not hot, and the pool makes for a great mid-day break along the south coast!

Grjótagjá Hot Spring Cave

Grjótagjá is one of the most unique hot springs in Iceland and might seem familiar if you’re a fan of the hit television series Game of Thrones. This lava cave hot spring appears in a season three episode as the setting for a much-anticipated love scene between the main characters. (John Snow and Ygritte)

While bathing here is not allowed (the water is too hot and slightly acidic) venturing into and discovering the cave comes with a high recommendation from me!

Myvatn Nature Baths

If you really do want to dip in a hot spring the Myvatn Nature Baths are just up the road and a great way to round out a day of exploring in Iceland!

Snæfellsjökull National Park

Snæfellsjökull National Park is another unique location in Iceland that gets fewer visitors than it deserves. Formed in 2001 to protect the distinct landscapes and important historical relics it also provides the infrastructure that allows tourists to access this wild peninsula.

Here you can descend into and explore an 8000-year-old lava tube at Vatnshellir Cave, climb into an extinct volcano at the Saxholl Crater and even search for puffins along the rugged black basalt cliffs of Londrangar.

The Snaefellsness peninsula and Snæfellsjökull National Park are places well worth adding to your Icelandic Itinerary!

Glymur Waterfall

Until recently Glymur was the tallest waterfall in Iceland. Simply because of this fact you’d expect it to be a common stop for visitors to the country. However, Its somewhat remote and involves a bit of a hike, so, even the tourists that do come through the area are likely to skip it. Accessible only in the summer months you’ll want to plan for a 3 hour round trip.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara Beach is definitely the most famous place in Iceland. It has shown up in every Medieval and fantastic movie out there. Located beside the town of Vik, this striking coast features huge black basalt stacks. It is about 120 km from Reykjavik making it a popular day trip and it is located on the Ring Road. You’ll see many sea birds along here and it’s one of the best places to spot puffins.

Snaefellsjokul National Park

Located on the West Coast of Iceland, Snaefellsjokul national park is a must-visit on a tour of Iceland. Located on the tip of the Snaefellsjokul Peninsula it has a beautiful basalt landscape where you can explore lava tubes, the Buðahraun lava field, the Snæfellsjökull Glacier and volcano.

Vatnajokull National Park 

Vatnajokull  National Park is the land of Fire and Ice due to its volcanic activity mixed with glacier movement. It is Europe’s largest national park covering 12% of the country. It sees fewer tourists than other tourist destinations and you can take 4X4 trips, do some hiking and take guided tours onto the Vatnajökull ice cap and ice caves.  

It also houses the Dettifoss Waterfall, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. It is definitely worth the trip to Northern Iceland. It also houses the largest glacier in Europe. Vatnajökull Glacier is actually an ice cap that encompasses 8100 square km.

Asbyrgi Canyon

Asbyrgi Canyon is located in North Iceland and just 30 km from Dettifoss Waterfall. The 100 meter high cliffs form a horseshoe canyon. It reminds me of the Cliffs of Moher of Ireland (without the water of course). You can camp in Asbyrgi Canyon and it is a good place for hiking.

Lake Myvatn

When driving Iceland, many people take drive the ring road or do the Golden Circle Tour, but there is an alternative called, the Diamond Circle. Lake Myvatn is located on this circle. The unique landscape of Lake Myvatn is what makes it so interesting to visit. There are many intersting sites around Iceland’s fourth-largest lake including Dimmuborgir lava formations, the picturesque Hverfjall Volcano Crater, the geothermal area of Leirhnjukur, and the Lofthellir Ice Cave located in the Búrfell lava field.

Like much of Iceland you can take a dip in the hot springs and visit geothermal waters. The Myvatn Mineral Baths area fantastic alternative to the Blue Lagoon.

Iceland is the land of Waterfalls and our favourite was Godafoss. Located on the Ring Road or in North Iceland, Godafoss is known as the Waterfall of the Gods. It is located in Myvatn and Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland.

See the Northern Lights

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Many people plan their entire trip around seeing the Aurora Borealis.What is great about the hotels in Iceland is that they will keep a lookout for the Northern Lights and wake you up when they are active. Just let the front desk know that you are interested and they’ll make sure you don’t miss them.

Geysir Geothermal Area 

No trip to Iceland would be complete without witnessing the Geyser Hot Spring Area. The Strokker Geyser shoots 30 meters into the air. While it is a very popular stop on the Golden Circle, it is on the list because it is so unique!

Fjallabak Nature Reserve 

You May have heard of Rainbow Mountain in Peru, well Iceland has its own colorful mountains. This valley is filled with rainbow colored mountains and geothermal pools. For hiking in Iceland, this is the one to do, the Laugavegur Trail was rated as one of the top hikes in the world.

Blue Lagoon

When visiting Iceland there are plenty of “must-see” sights, there’s no arguing that. The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous hot springs. And even though it is overcrowded, no trip to Iceland would be complete without a visit to the Blue Lagoon. What makes it easy is that it is close to the airport so you can pop in before your flight out. (Like we did). The Geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon are what drew tourists to Iceland and it is worth visiting at least once in your lifetime.

Read our full breakdown of the Blue Lagoon here: How to Visit The Blue Lagoon in Iceland

But getting off the tourist trail and exploring the less known and more unique places in Iceland is sure to leave you speechless.

Some of the top things to do in Iceland (that are on the popular tourist trail are:

  • Lava Fields – the largest lava flow in the world located in the south of Iceland.
  • Vik Rock Formations – Sea stacks and caves
  • Gullfoss Waterfall – Iceland’s most popular waterfall
  • Golden Circle Route – This is the popular ring road that circles around the country
  • Icelandic Horses – These horses are unique to Iceland and nothing compares to going for a ride and trying to Tolt on an Icelandic horse.
  • Whale Watching and Bird Watching.

Iceland Tours

  • Independent travel in Iceland is possible when renting a car but you may want to book some tours in advance if you are not driving.
  • We use GetYourGuide as a tour company as it is easy to book in advance, cancel with 24 hours notice and we have enjoyed the tours we’ve taken with them.
  • Golden Circle Tour – Pick up from Reykjavik and explore the highlights of Southern Iceland including the Geyser, discover where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet in Þingvellir National Park and Gullfoss waterfall Click here for details
  • Whale Watching – Húsavík as the capital of whale watching in Iceland and this is the original. If you are going to go whale watching this is a good option.

For more information on Iceland check out our Iceland Travel Guide

Enjoy perusing all these attractions of Iceland? Why not save this to Pinterest for future reference?

These are simply 13 of the hundreds of unique attractions in Iceland. We’ve barely scratched the surface of what the country has to offer.

If you get the chance to visit the land of fire and Ice I’d urge you to drop everything and take it! Iceland has quickly become one of my favorite destinations and somewhere I look forward to returning to again and again!

About Patrick

Patrick is an internationally published Canadian travel photographer and blogger from Adventographer.com who explores the world fuelled by culture, sunsets, street food, and good coffee.

He writes from a wealth of travel experiences both good and bad and endeavors to create & share unique and inspiring content from around the world as a catalyst for change with the mantra Explore.Create.Educate . Find him on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter or Pinterest

Read More About Iceland Travels

  • How to Visit The Blue Lagoon in Iceland
  • What to Pack for a Winter Trip to Iceland
  • Iceland Pictures – Incredible Images of Mind Blowing Beauty
  • The Icelandic Horse – All you Need to Know About this Beautiful Breed

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10 thoughts on “30 of the Best Places To Visit In Iceland”

thank for sharing the beauty of iceland, the picture quality and information force me to write comment. keep sharing this type of information

This article gives a clear picture of Iceland and I hope to visit this place soon. Thanks for sharing.

I am very happy to read this blog beacuse this is one of my dream place.In this article you have mentioned about the hot spring caves, glaciers, lagoons and i like it.Thanks for your blog and it did really helped me to get a overall picture.

I also explored these all fabulous places during my last journey and we acme back with stunning memories,

Nice Article! Thanks for sharing.

Are you currently blogging as a side hustle in the niche topic of “travel?”

Iceland is simply breathtaking! thank you guys for sharing this entire thing with us. I am in love with the Silfra Fissure, Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach. I really hope to visit Iceland soon. You guys are amazing travel bloggers.

I just had to double back and give you a shoutout for staying consistent with your “travel blogging.” You and someone else is quietly inspiring me to consider start heavily promoting travel related affiliate programs. But I’m deciding how to start out with the budget I have now using PPC advertising. Thank you for just being you. 🙂

Great article!

looks like a very beautiful place there my friend. The truth is, I don’t know about visiting there. I do want to travel back to Santa Barbara, California in next three years. Hopefully sooner than that. 🙂

From Puffin to Skyr: A Foodie's Guide to Iceland's 10 Must-Try Restaurants

Iceland's restaurants are exceptional if a little expensive. Here's where travelers should be making reservations to try the country's top food.

Iceland has some amazing restaurants and foodie’s can definitely find spots to indulge while they’re exploring this beautiful country. Whether they’re staying in the many beautiful towns in Iceland or the charming city of Reykjavík and daytripping to Iceland's top national parks , there's great grub to be head. The same goes for if visitors are heading to the the famous Iceland blue lagoon or they’re on a trip searching for the most beautiful stops along Iceland's ring road , there are lots of well-reviewed spots to stop for lunch and dinner. Here are Iceland’s ten must-try restaurants from Reykjavík to Husavik and beyond.

10 101 Reykjavík Streetfood

101 Reykjavík Streetfood is the ideal spot to try some of Iceland’s traditional dishes on a budget. Start with soup for an appetizer; this is a great place to try Iceland’s traditional Lamb Meat Soup. Then, for a main, try the fish stew (Plokkfiskur) which is one of Iceland’s national dishes.

  • Address: Skólavörðustígur 8, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
  • Type Of Cuisine: Icelandic
  • Hours: 11 AM to 10 PM

Related: December In Iceland: How To Brave The Cold For The Perfect Winter Holiday Destination

9 Café Loki

This charming Icelandic café is just a 2-minute walk from the famous landmark, Hallgrímskirkja, making it a wonderful place to grab coffee and a snack before or after visiting the cathedral. Café Loki is a casual joint with beautiful views and lots of menu options. Their “Icelandic Plate” menu items are ideal for a couple to share and sample some traditional Icelandic dishes in small portions.

  • Address: Lokastígur 28, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
  • Hours: 8 AM to 10 PM

8 Islenski Barinn

Íslenski barinn is just a few minutes away from the Icelandic Phallological Museum on foot. This is a classic Icelandic restaurant serving authentic local cuisine, including a vast selection of meat dishes that are unique to the region. Whale, reindeer, shark, and more can be found on the menu.

  • Address: Ingólfsstræti 1a 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
  • (Kitchen) Hours: 11:30 AM to 10 PM

7 Svarta Kaffið

Svarta Kaffið is perfect for travelers who are on a budget but still want a hearty meal while in Reykjavik. This restaurant is primarily a soup restaurant, serving savory soups in an edible bowl made of bread. They also have a great local beer selection which pairs nicely with their soups after a day of exploring the city.

  • Address: Laugavegur 54, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
  • Type Of Cuisine: Soup
  • Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11:30 AM to 10 PM, Sunday 12 PM to 10 PM

6 Strikið

Strikið is a casual place to dine in the northern Icelandic city of Akureyri . Travelers who are driving the ring road may find themselves seeking a nice meal here partway through the journey and will love the cocktails, terrace, scenic views, and variety of dishes available here.

  • Address: Skipagata 14, 600 Akureyri, Iceland
  • Type Of Cuisine: Gastropub
  • Hours: Monday to Friday 11:30 AM to 10 PM, Saturdays and Sundays 12:00 PM to 10 PM

5 Kol Restaurant

Also located just a couple of minutes from the Hallgrímskirkja on foot, Kol Restaurant offers fine dining in the heart of Reykjavík. The restaurant is elegant, and menu items can be pricey, but the quality of the traditional Icelandic fare is worth it. They also boast a bottomless brunch menu on weekends.

  • Address: Skólavörðustígur 40, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
  • Hours: Monday to Thursday, 12 PM to 2 PM and 5:30 PM to 10 PM, Friday, 12 PM to 2 PM and 5:30 PM to 11 PM, Saturday, 12 PM to 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM to 11 PM, Sunday 12 PM to 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM to 10 PM

Related: These 10 Scenic Iceland Destinations Are Best Visited In The Winter

Seabaron is an upscale seafood restaurant in Reykjavík that is owned by a retired Icelandic fisherman. They are primarily known for their lobster soup, but they also serve 8 different kinds of fish that come in fresh daily. Customers choose their fish at the counter, and it’s grilled for them on the spot. They also serve grilled potatoes and grilled vegetables.

  • Address: Geirsgata 4a, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
  • Type Of Cuisine: Seafood
  • Hours: 11:30 AM to 4 PM and 6 PM to 10 PM

3 The Laundromat Cafe

Perfect for backpackers who need to do some laundry while in Reykjavík, The Laundromat Cafe is located downtown near the Icelandic Phallological Museum. The café opened in Iceland in 2011 (it was originally founded in Copenhagen in 2004) and started based on the premise that travelers can eat while they wait for their laundry to finish. Detergent and tokens (1 token for a wash and 1 for drying) can be purchased at the bar. A token costs ~$9 (1299KR) . There is also a book bar and lots of tables for dining.

  • Address: Austurstræti 9, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
  • Type Of Cuisine: Café
  • Hours: Monday to Wednesday 9 AM to 9 PM, Thursday and Friday 9 AM to 10 PM, Saturday 10 AM to 8 PM, Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM

Related: Hiking Kerlingarfjöll: A Guide To Iceland's Most Beautiful Highland Range

2 Gamli Baukar

Travelers who find themselves in the small Icelandic town of Húsavík should check out Gamli Baukar during their stay. The menu varies and dishes are made from locally sourced ingredients. There is also a vast selection of beer and wine to choose from and enjoy with scenic views.

  • Address: Hafnarstétt 9, 640 Húsavík, Iceland
  • Type Of Cuisine: Locally sourced
  • Hours: 11:30 AM to 9 PM

1 Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur

There is no better place to try the famous Icelandic hot dog than at this stand in Reykjavík. These hot dogs are lamb-based and also contain pork and beef. Toppings available include sweet mustard, ketchup, crispy onions, and raw onions. Guests can ask for everything and receive a fully loaded traditional Icelandic hot dog.

  • Address: Tryggvagata 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
  • Type Of Cuisine: Hog Dogs
  • Hours: Sunday to Wednesday 9 AM to 1 AM, Thursday 9 AM to 2 AM, Friday to Saturday, 9 AM to 6 AM

IMAGES

  1. The 10 Most Visited Tourist Destinations In Iceland

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  2. The Top 10 Places to Visit in Iceland

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  3. Reykjavik, Iceland : MostBeautiful

    best places to visit in iceland reddit

  4. 10 Most Amazing Landscapes in Iceland

    best places to visit in iceland reddit

  5. 8 Must-See Attractions in Iceland

    best places to visit in iceland reddit

  6. The 10 Best Places to Visit in Iceland in Summer

    best places to visit in iceland reddit

VIDEO

  1. Iceland #travelvlog #shorts#youtubeshorts

  2. Top 10 Best Things to Do in Iceland

  3. Iceland 2023/2024 Day 1

  4. Places in Iceland that don’t feel real 🇮🇸🤯 #travel #adventure #explore #nature #iceland

  5. Top 10 Travel Destinations in Iceland

  6. Places You Need To Visit In Iceland #iceland

COMMENTS

  1. Things I wish I had Known Before I visited Iceland (My list of ...

    Travel / Sightseeing. Taxis are expensive. One mile cost me $14 or so. Get flybus (go to their website ahead of time) from airport to town if you don't rent a car. $20 each way is a good deal. Those guided tours are cool! Lots of companies do similar tours. (Look at gray line, reykjavik excursion, extreme iceland and others.

  2. Most underrated places in Iceland? (2021 edition)

    Here is my list: Þakgil: it's quite possibly the most beautiful campsite in Iceland but even if you are not camping, the road there is quite scenic and you don't really need 4WD. It takes about an hour to drive there from the ring road just a bit after Vik. Hólaskjól: This is what lies just beyond the highland center -- it is a wonderful ...

  3. What are the must see locations in Iceland? : r/VisitingIceland

    Here's what I was happy I saw: gullfoss waterfall, Fontana geothermal pools, strokkur geyser, Ytri Tunga beach, deity of mount snaefell (not specifically the stone monument but the pier near it), kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, seljalandsfoss, the blue lagoon (IDC that it's a tourist trap it's still beady enjoyable and I'm glad I didn't skip it ...

  4. What are your top 3 favourite sights in Iceland to visit? : r ...

    Landmannalaugur for the consistency of the water and the petri dish of nationalities. stevenarwhals •. All solid answers that could have easily made my top 3 as well. :) mgugs46 • 3 yr. ago. Gjain was amazing. mgugs46 • 3 yr. ago.

  5. What should every person know exactly before they visit Iceland?

    Take that time and see some other incredible natural (or unnatural!) wonder. Jokulsarlon and Diamond Beach actually live up to the hype! (Though they can be more or less interesting depending on the day you are there.) 9) When in Reykjavik, be sure to stop by Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, the "Nation's Best Hotdog" stand (near Harpa.)

  6. Travel related discussions about Iceland

    MOD • 5 hr. ago. Eruption March 16th megathread! 🚨🌋. An eruption has begun once again on the Reykjanes peninsula. This is the 7th eruption on Reykjanes peninsula since March 2021. The area is closed. It is not open for public access. Do not buy tickets to go to Iceland with hopes of viewing this eruption. Cameras:

  7. What are the top 5 things to do in Iceland without a tour guide?

    Here below are a couple of easy things to do. Hike up Reykjadalur the valley behind the village of Hveragerði and bathe in the hot lake that runs down the valley. Explore Fjarðárgljúfur canyon. Visit the town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur and hike up and around Systrafoss. Hike from Arnarstapi to Hellnar and visit Fjöruhúsið.

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    Walk around Flatey among grazing sheep and busy seabirds (watch out for the Arctic terns), look out at the ocean and find inner calm. The ferry goes between Stykkishólmur and Brjánslækur. Planning tips: It's best to visit in summer when the weather is more stable for sailing and more services are open. 12. Húsafell.

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    Dyrholaey is just one of the many top places to see puffins in Iceland. 12. See the Largest Glacier in Europe. One of the best places to visit in Iceland is the Vatnajokull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. It makes up 8% of Iceland's landmass with countless stunning ice caves, each a marvelous feat of nature.

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    Húsavík is one of the best places to go on a whale watching tour in Iceland, but the also leave from Akuyeri, and Reykjavík. You can also see whales from the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the Westfjords. 13. Walk on a Glacier. Strap on some crampons, grab an ice pick, and set off on a very cool Icelandic adventure.

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    1. See history brought back to life at Iceland's living museums. Iceland revels in bringing history back to life with numerous living museums that invite visitors to step back in time. You might bake bread over an open fire, listen to a story of ancient heroes and heroines, or swing a sword in an epic fight.

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    Day 1: Arrive in Iceland, Visit the Blue Lagoon. Driving Distance and Time: 22 km, 20 minutes. Flights to Iceland arrive at Keflavík International Airport, which is located on the Reykjanes peninsula. Pick up your rental car at the airport. Lines can be very, very long, especially midday in the summer months.

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    10) GALDRASAFNID: The Museum of Icelandic Witchcraft. The museum of sorcery and witchcraft is a unique cultural place to visit in Iceland. Number 10 on this incredible list of Iceland's hidden gems is a little different from the stunning landscapes and fairy tail waterfalls in Iceland.

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    Photo from 6 Hour Volcano Tour Inside the Magma Chamber of Thrihnukagigur with Transfer from Reykjavik. Iceland is known the world over as the land of ice and fire. As well as containing a multitude of glaciers and snow-peaked mountains, volcanoes are also dotted around the island. Þríhnjúkagígur volcano, in the south of Iceland, is just one of them but stands as a prime example of just ...

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    3. Tour the Golden Circle and Go Snowmobiling or Snorkeling. 2. Must See Iceland: Witness the Northern Lights. 1. Go Glacier Hiking and Ice Caving. Find out the best things to do in Iceland. Explore all the fun activities, natural wonders, and best places to visit in this list of the 12 top things to see and do in Iceland.

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    3. Golden Circle. By far the most popular place to visit in Iceland is the so-called Golden Circle.The Golden Circle, formerly also known as the Golden Triangle, refers to three main locations - Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and Geysir area with a very active Strokkur geyser. Thingvellir National Park is best known for its continental divide, the Mid Atlantic Ridge.

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    4. Myrdalsjokull Glacier Park. Caked in ice all year round, the soaring ridges of the mighty Katla caldera play host to Iceland's wild and arctic Myrdalsjokull Glacier Park. This snow-packed field encompasses hundreds of square kilometers and represents the fourth-largest of its kind in the country.

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    Vik Rock Formations - Sea stacks and caves. Gullfoss Waterfall - Iceland's most popular waterfall. Golden Circle Route - This is the popular ring road that circles around the country. Icelandic Horses - These horses are unique to Iceland and nothing compares to going for a ride and trying to Tolt on an Icelandic horse.

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    This is a classic Icelandic restaurant serving authentic local cuisine, including a vast selection of meat dishes that are unique to the region. Whale, reindeer, shark, and more can be found on the menu. Address: Ingólfsstræti 1a 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland. Type Of Cuisine: Icelandic. (Kitchen) Hours: 11:30 AM to 10 PM.